FAQ's
New to Nicotine and Energy Pouches? Explore the information below to learn more about our products. If you have any questions, we’re here to help - just reach out!
Products
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are smoke-free, tobacco-free, and vapour-free products designed to provide a cleaner and more convenient nicotine experience. These small, discreet pouches are placed under the lip, allowing nicotine to be absorbed through the gums without the need for smoking or vaping.
Unlike traditional tobacco products, nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco leaf, produce no smoke, no odour, and no harmful combustion byproducts like tar or carbon monoxide. This makes them a modern and discreet alternative for those looking to enjoy nicotine while minimising exposure to harmful chemicals associated with smoking.
While nicotine itself is an addictive substance, switching to nicotine pouches offers several advantages over traditional smoking or vaping:
- Tobacco-Free - No tobacco leaf means no harmful by-products like tar.
- No Smoke, No Vapour - Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals found in cigarettes and e-cigarettes.
- No Lung Damage - No inhalation of smoke or vapour, reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
- No Odour or Staining - Won’t leave lingering smells or yellow stains on teeth and fingers.
- Discreet & Convenient - Can be used anytime, anywhere without affecting those around you.
Nicotine pouches come in a variety of strengths and flavours, catering to different preferences and nicotine needs. Whether you're looking to reduce smoking, quit altogether, or enjoy nicotine in a safer format, they offer a cleaner, more socially acceptable solution.
What are energy pouches?
Energy pouches are a modern, convenient, and discreet way to get a caffeine boost without the need for coffee, energy drinks, or sugary sodas. These small, portable pouches are placed under the lip, where caffeine and other active ingredients are gradually absorbed through the gums, providing a steady, controlled release of energy - without the jitters or crash often associated with high-sugar, high-caffeine drinks.
How Do Energy Pouches Work?
Energy pouches function similarly to nicotine pouches, but they contain no nicotine. Instead, they are infused with caffeine and sometimes additional performance-enhancing ingredients to improve focus, endurance, and mental alertness.
Simply place a pouch under your upper lip and let the caffeine absorb naturally - no chewing, swallowing, or drinking required. This quick and efficient delivery method allows caffeine to enter the bloodstream faster than traditional drinks, making energy pouches an ideal on-the-go solution.
What’s Inside an Energy Pouch?
While formulations vary between brands, most energy pouches contain a combination of:
- Caffeine - The key stimulant that increases energy, focus, and alertness. Strengths vary from mild (40mg per pouch) to extra-strong (100mg+ per pouch).
- Taurine - A common ingredient in energy drinks, known for its role in reducing fatigue and improving mental performance.
- B-Vitamins - Help convert food into energy and support brain function.
- Plant-Based Fibres - Used to give the pouch its structure while ensuring a comfortable fit under the lip.
- Flavouring & Sweeteners - Available in a variety of flavours, from refreshing mint to fruity blends, offering a great taste experience without excessive sugar.
Why Choose Energy Pouches Over Traditional Caffeine Sources?
- Fast-Acting & Long-Lasting - Caffeine is absorbed directly through the gums, delivering an efficient energy boost without the delay of digestion.
- No Liquids Required - Enjoy caffeine without needing to drink coffee or energy drinks, making it perfect for work, travel, and exercise.
- Sugar-Free & Tooth-Friendly - No acidic drinks means less risk of tooth decay and no stained teeth.
- No Crash, No Jitters - Many energy pouches provide a balanced release of energy, helping avoid sudden spikes and crashes.
- Convenient & Portable - Small and easy to carry, energy pouches fit in your pocket for a boost anytime, anywhere.
Who Can Benefit from Energy Pouches?
Energy pouches are ideal for:
- Athletes & Gym-Goers - Boost stamina and endurance before or during workouts.
- Students & Professionals - Improve focus and productivity during long study or work sessions.
- Drivers & Travelers - Stay alert during road trips and long flights.
- Gamers & Night Owls - Keep energy levels up for extended gaming or late-night work.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning boost, a mid-day pick-me-up, or an alternative to coffee and sugary drinks, energy pouches offer a clean, efficient, and modern solution to keep you energised and focused throughout the day.
How do I use pouches?
- Open the can and take out a single pouch.
- Place it under your upper lip, resting it against your gum. There’s no need to chew, suck, or swallow the pouch - simply let it sit.
- Feel a tingling sensation? That’s a sign the nicotine is being released. This will gradually fade as the flavour and satisfaction build.
- Enjoy the pouch for 30–60 minutes - standard pouches typically last around 30 minutes, while dry pouches can provide flavour and nicotine for up to an hour.
- Dispose of the pouch responsibly - if your can has a top compartment for used pouches, place it there; otherwise, discard it properly.
- Avoid eating or drinking while using a nicotine pouch to minimise the risk of accidental swallowing.
- If a pouch is accidentally swallowed, seek medical advice immediately.
What are the main ingredients of pouches?
The main ingredients in nicotine pouches are carefully selected to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. These ingredients work together to deliver nicotine in a smoke-free and tobacco-free form, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional smoking and vaping. Here are the key components:
- Nicotine - The active ingredient that provides the nicotine experience. It’s typically sourced from tobacco leaves but processed to eliminate the harmful elements associated with smoking. The nicotine is carefully controlled to provide a consistent and satisfying effect.
- Plant-Based Fibres or Fillers - These natural materials (such as cellulose) give the pouch its shape and structure, ensuring it’s easy to use and holds the nicotine and flavour components securely. They are typically made from sustainable plant sources, contributing to the eco-friendliness of nicotine pouches.
- Food-Grade Flavourings - Added to provide a distinct, enjoyable taste. These flavours can range from mint and citrus to fruit or even spicy varieties, catering to a wide range of preferences. All flavourings used are food-grade to ensure safety and quality.
- pH Adjusters - Ingredients like sodium carbonate help to regulate the pH level inside the pouch, which controls the nicotine release. This ensures that the nicotine is absorbed efficiently and at a consistent rate.
- Sweeteners - Artificial or natural sweeteners such as xylitol are often included to balance the flavours and enhance the taste. Xylitol, in particular, is known for its oral health benefits and is commonly used in nicotine pouches for its refreshing sweetness.
- Moisture Agents - Water or other moisture-retaining ingredients are used to keep the pouches fresh and prevent them from drying out. Moisture helps maintain the soft texture and consistent release of nicotine, ensuring a more comfortable and longer-lasting experience.
These carefully selected ingredients come together to create a smooth, enjoyable, and effective nicotine pouch that provides a tobacco-free alternative with a variety of flavours, strengths, and lasting satisfaction.
Are nicotine pouches safe?
Nicotine pouches are a tobacco-free, smoke-free, and vapour-free alternative to traditional smoking and vaping. While they contain nicotine, which is an addictive substance, they eliminate many of the harmful chemicals found in combustible tobacco products like cigarettes and cigars.
Understanding Nicotine & Its Risks
There is a common misconception that nicotine itself is carcinogenic (cancer-causing). However, extensive research has shown that nicotine is not the primary cause of smoking-related diseases such as lung cancer or heart disease. Instead, the real dangers come from combustion, which produces harmful tar, carbon monoxide, and thousands of toxic chemicals that damage the lungs and bloodstream.
Nicotine, on its own, is a mild stimulant and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing agent). It is the same active ingredient found in nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges—products that are widely recommended by health professionals to help people quit smoking.
Harm Reduction & The Role of Nicotine Pouches
In the context of harm reduction, nicotine pouches provide a safer alternative by removing the toxic byproducts of smoking while still satisfying nicotine cravings. They function similarly to other quit-smoking aids by delivering nicotine in a controlled, smokeless manner, reducing overall health risks compared to traditional tobacco use.
Key Safety Benefits of Nicotine Pouches
- 100% Tobacco-Free - No tobacco leaves, no tar, no combustion.
- Smoke & Vapour-Free - Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke and e-cigarettes.
- No Impact on Lung Health - No inhalation of harmful substances, making them easier on the respiratory system.
- No Second hand Smoke - Safer for people around you, unlike smoking or vaping.
- Used in Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Approaches - Similar to medically approved products designed to help people transition away from smoking.
While nicotine is still addictive, switching to nicotine pouches can be a stepping stone for smokers looking to reduce harm or gradually quit nicotine use altogether. Like any nicotine-containing product, they should be used responsibly, particularly by those who are not already nicotine users.
What strength is right for me?
Choosing the right nicotine strength is crucial for a satisfying experience. If the nicotine strength is too high, it may cause dizziness, nausea, or discomfort. On the other hand, if the strength is too low, it may not effectively curb your cravings, increasing the likelihood of reaching for a cigarette or vape.
When selecting the right strength, consider your nicotine tolerance and how frequently you use nicotine products. If you are new to nicotine or only use it occasionally, starting with a lower strength is recommended. For experienced users, a stronger pouch may be more effective.
Nicotine Strength Guide
- Light Users (4-6mg per pouch) - Best for new users, occasional smokers, or those switching from light cigarettes. Ideal if you smoke fewer than 10 cigarettes per day.
- Moderate Users (8-12mg per pouch) - Suitable for those who smoke 10-15 cigarettes per day or use nicotine products regularly. Provides a satisfying but balanced experience.
- Heavy Users (14mg+ per pouch) - Designed for those who smoke a pack a day or more and have a high nicotine tolerance. Provides a strong, lasting hit.
- Extra-Strong (20mg+ per pouch) - For those seeking the most intense experience, equivalent to strong cigarettes or high-strength vapes. Recommended only for users accustomed to high nicotine intake.
Adjusting Nicotine Strength to Fit Your Lifestyle
Nicotine pouch users often find that different strengths work best at different times of the day or in different situations:
- Morning Boost - A stronger pouch (e.g. 12-20mg) pairs well with coffee for an extra kick to start the day.
- Work & Productivity - A medium to strong strength pouch (8-12mg) helps maintain focus without being overwhelming.
- Social Settings & Cravings - In bars, clubs, or stressful situations, a higher-strength pouch can help curb cravings more effectively.
- Relaxing Evenings - A lower-strength pouch (4-6mg) may be more enjoyable for winding down.
Ultimately, the right strength is a personal choice, based on your nicotine history, tolerance, and preferences. If you're unsure, start with a lower strength and gradually adjust until you find what works best for you.
Are nicotine pouches and Snus the same thing?
No, nicotine pouches and snus are not the same. While both are oral smokeless nicotine products, they have key differences in composition, ingredients, and health considerations.
The Main Differences Between Nicotine Pouches & Snus
- Tobacco Content - The biggest difference between the two is that snus contains tobacco, while nicotine pouches are 100% tobacco-free. Snus is made from moist, ground tobacco, which naturally contains nicotine, whereas nicotine pouches contain extracted or synthetic nicotine without any tobacco leaf.
- Nicotine Source - In nicotine pouches, nicotine is either extracted from tobacco or produced synthetically, offering a cleaner alternative. Snus, on the other hand, gets its nicotine directly from the tobacco leaves used in its production.
- Appearance & Texture - Nicotine pouches are typically soft, white, and free from tobacco, meaning they do not stain teeth or leave any residue. Snus, however, has a darker, moist texture due to its tobacco content and can sometimes stain teeth over time.
- Flavour & Smell - Nicotine pouches are available in a wide variety of flavours, including mint, citrus, fruit, coffee, and more, making them appealing to different tastes. Snus is mostly tobacco-flavoured, although some varieties contain mint or bergamot. Snus also has a stronger, more noticeable tobacco smell, while nicotine pouches have a more subtle, fresh scent.
- Health Considerations - Since nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco, they are free from many of the harmful chemicals found in traditional tobacco products, such as tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), which are linked to potential health risks. Snus, despite being a smokeless product, still contains tobacco and its associated chemicals, making it a higher-risk product compared to nicotine pouches.
- Usage & Convenience - Both products are placed under the upper lip, but nicotine pouches provide a cleaner, more discreet experience with no staining, no odour, and no residue. Snus, due to its moist tobacco content, can feel heavier and may release more saliva, leading to a different absorption rate.
- Legal Restrictions - Nicotine pouches are widely available in countries where tobacco products are restricted, such as in most EU nations. Snus, however, is banned in most of the European Union, except for Sweden, where it remains popular.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you're looking for a clean, modern alternative to smoking or vaping, nicotine pouches are the better choice. They offer a discreet, stain-free, and odourless nicotine experience without the risks associated with tobacco.
Snus, on the other hand, may appeal to those who prefer a traditional tobacco experience, but it still contains tobacco-related chemicals that can have health implications.
Both products provide a smoke-free and vapour-free nicotine experience, but nicotine pouches stand out as a healthier, tobacco-free alternative for those looking to reduce or eliminate tobacco use while still enjoying nicotine.
How should I store my pouches?
To maintain freshness and quality, store your nicotine and energy pouches in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keeping them sealed in their original container helps preserve moisture and flavour. While refrigeration isn’t necessary, it can extend shelf life, especially in warmer climates. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, as heat can dry them out, and cold can make them less pliable. Always keep nicotine pouches out of reach of children and pets for safety.
How many pouches a day?
The number of nicotine pouches a person uses daily varies based on nicotine tolerance, individual habits, and personal preferences. Most users report consuming between 6 to 12 pouches per day, but this can differ significantly - some people may use far fewer, while others may exceed this average.
Factors That Influence Pouch Consumption
- Nicotine Tolerance - If you are new to nicotine pouches or are switching from smoking or vaping, your tolerance may be lower, meaning fewer pouches may be sufficient. Long-term nicotine users may require more to achieve the desired effect.
- Nicotine Strength - The higher the nicotine content per pouch, the fewer you may need throughout the day. If you're using stronger pouches (12mg+ per pouch), you might find that you require fewer than someone using a milder strength (4-6mg per pouch).
- Lifestyle & Daily Routine - Those who work long hours, exercise frequently, or have an active lifestyle may find themselves reaching for nicotine pouches more often to maintain focus and energy levels. Similarly, social settings or stressful situations may influence increased usage.
- Length of Use Per Pouch - Each pouch typically lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on its moisture content and personal preference. If you tend to remove pouches quickly, you may go through more in a day than someone who keeps them in longer.
How to Determine the Right Amount for You
The best approach is to listen to your body and adjust accordingly:
- Feeling nauseous, dizzy, or experiencing headaches? You may be using too many pouches or consuming too much nicotine—try reducing your intake or switching to a lower-strength pouch.
- Trouble sleeping? Nicotine is a stimulant, so using pouches too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep. Consider reducing usage in the evening or opting for a lower dose at night.
- Still craving nicotine? If you’re consuming fewer pouches but still feeling withdrawal symptoms, you may need a slightly higher strength to stay satisfied.
There’s no one-size-fits-all number when it comes to nicotine pouches. It’s all about finding the right balance that works for you while avoiding overconsumption. If you’re new to nicotine pouches, it’s advisable to start with a moderate amount and adjust based on how you feel. Remember, nicotine should be used responsibly, and excessive consumption can lead to discomfort or dependence.
Why do I sometimes get hiccups?
Hiccuping while using a nicotine pouch is relatively common and usually occurs due to how nicotine affects your body or the way the pouch interacts with your oral and digestive systems. Here are some potential reasons:
- Nicotine Irritation - Nicotine can irritate the lining of your mouth or esophagus, stimulating the phrenic nerve (which controls the diaphragm). This irritation may trigger involuntary diaphragm contractions, resulting in hiccups.
- Increased Saliva Production - Nicotine pouches often increase saliva production. If you swallow saliva quickly or in large amounts, it can irritate your oesophagus or stomach, potentially triggering hiccups.
- Nicotine Relaxing the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) - Nicotine can relax the LES, the muscle that prevents stomach contents from entering the oesophagus. This can cause minor reflux or air entry into the stomach, which may lead to hiccups.
- Diaphragm Stimulation - The act of placing a nicotine pouch under your lip might stimulate nearby nerves (such as the vagus or phrenic nerves), which play a role in hiccup reflexes.
- Fast Nicotine Absorption - A rapid spike in nicotine absorption can activate receptors that affect your nervous system, sometimes resulting in hiccups as a side effect.
How to Minimise Hiccups While Using Nicotine Pouches
- 1. Adjust Placement - Position the pouch in a less sensitive area, such as the lower lip.
- Start with Lower Nicotine Levels - If you’re new to nicotine pouches or using a high-strength product, try a lower nicotine concentration to reduce potential irritation.
- Swallow Slowly - Be mindful of swallowing saliva slowly and avoid gulping, as this can reduce the chance of triggering hiccups.
- Hydrate - Drink water while using the pouch to minimise irritation and wash down excess saliva gently.
- Take Breaks - If you notice hiccups occurring frequently, remove the pouch for a while to let your body settle before using it again.
If hiccups persist or become uncomfortable, you might want to try a different brand or consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the pouches aren’t irritating you in a specific way.
Why do my pouches not white?
Noticing a slight colour variation in your nicotine or energy pouches? This is completely normal and occurs due to the natural ingredients, flavouring agents, and the manufacturing process. The appearance of pouches may vary slightly depending on the specific formulation, but this has no impact on the quality, safety, or effectiveness of the product.
What Causes Colour Changes in Pouches?
- Natural Ingredients & Flavouring Agents - Many nicotine and energy pouches contain plant-based fibres, natural sweeteners, and flavouring compounds. Certain ingredients, such as mint oils, fruit extracts, or caffeine, can create subtle colour differences in the pouch material.
- Caffeine Content (For Energy Pouches) - If your energy pouches contain caffeine or other active stimulants, they may develop a slight beige or yellowish tint due to the properties of caffeine itself. This is especially common in high-caffeine pouches.
- Manufacturing & Drying Process - The way pouches are processed and dried can sometimes lead to small variations in colour. For example, drier pouches may appear slightly lighter, while moist pouches can have a more pronounced shade.
- Air & Light Exposure - Over time, exposure to oxygen and light can slightly alter the colour of the pouch. This does not mean the pouch has degraded - it’s simply a natural reaction of certain ingredients to environmental factors. To preserve freshness, always store your pouches in a cool, dry place with the lid securely closed.
Does Colour Affect the Quality of My Pouches?
Absolutely not! A slight colour variation does not impact the potency, safety, or flavour of your nicotine or energy pouches. They are still perfectly safe to use and will deliver the same experience as intended.
Rest assured, colour changes are purely cosmetic and are simply part of the natural composition of your favourite nicotine and energy pouches!
Are expired pouches safe to use?
Yes, nicotine and energy pouches can still be used safely beyond their expiry date. Unlike perishable food or medication, pouches do not "expire" in the traditional sense, meaning they do not become harmful or dangerous to consume after the printed date. Instead, the expiry date is mainly a guideline for peak freshness, flavour, and effectiveness.
While they may lose some moisture, flavour, or effectiveness over time, they do not pose any health risks like expired food or medicine.
Orders
What payment methods are available?
- We offer safe, secure online payments through Yoco and Ozow.
- Yoco offers credit/debit cards, and Ozow, Instant EFT.
How do I know if my payment was successful?
When your payment is successful, you will receive an order confirmation email stating that we are busy processing your order.
Is it safe to make payments on Pouch World?
All of our payments are managed by Yoco and Ozow. They are completely secure and PCI-DSS Level 1 Service Provider Compliant. Your card information will never be saved on our system, nor can it be seen or intercepted by any unauthorised 3rd parties.
Shipping & Returns
Do you ship outside South Africa?
Unfortunately, we currently only deliver online orders within South Africa.
For wholesale and distributor inquiries outside of South Africa, please contact us for a customised quote, and we’ll be happy to assist!
How much does shipping cost?
We offer swift and discreet shipping that is free for orders of R800 and above. Pouch World charges a fixed rate of R85 per order that is under R800.
All orders are dispatched locally from the Oh Ship! logistics centre in Strand, Cape Town: 4 Prestige Place, 5 Henry Vos Close, ASLA Park, Strand, 7140, South Africa.
- Free for local pick up from the Oh Ship! logistics centre in Strand. Please note that orders need to placed online and paid for, before collection.
- Free for orders over R800.00
- Flat rate shipping of R85.00 for all orders under R800.00 - nationwide delivery
Can I collect my order?
When placing your order online, you have the option of selecting "Free Pickup" in the checkout process. Please note that you need to place and pay for your order online, before collection.
- Collection is from Monday to Thursday between 8h00-15h00 at the Oh Ship! logistics centre: 4 Prestige Place, 5 Henry Vos Close, ASLA Park, Strand, 7140, South Africa
- Once you've placed your order, please let us know an estimated day/time of collection.
When will I receive my order?
We strive to ship your order within 24 hours (excluding weekends and public holidays).
- Orders placed over the weekend will only get dispatched the following week.
- We aim to deliver within 2 to 3 business days to major centres, allowing for slightly longer delivery times to outlying areas.
- We do not ship to P.O. Boxes.
- All orders are shipped via national couriers and might require a signature upon delivery.
- A tracking number will allow you to trace your parcel.
- Please allow at least 48 hours after placing your order before calling us to check on your order tracking, as the tracking information may not be available from our shippers before that time.
- We cannot be held responsible if that delivery address is incorrect.
- Occasionally packages are returned to us undeliverable. Should this event take place every attempt will be made to contact you to make arrangements for re-shipment.
Can I return my order?
Pouch World products are non-returnable due to the hygiene/health and consumable nature of the product. The product once purchased and accepted cannot be returned. If you are unsure what to purchase, please contact us beforehand for advice.
Pouch World does provide a free-of-cost replacement of a product within seven days after the product has been delivered, in case you have:
- Received item(s) in poor, damaged or mutilated condition or;
- Received an item(s) that is different from the item(s) that you have ordered with us;
If your order arrives damaged or defective in any way then please contact us as soon as possible to arrange a return. We reserve the right to inspect the product and determine whether or not we consider the item to be defective. If we find that it is, you will receive a full refund or replacement.
Please follow the steps below:
1. Email us at info@pouchworld.co.za
2. Our team will then get in touch shortly after, to explain how we can replace your product or provide you with a refund.