A proposed ban on nicotine pouches in New York state is causing concern among veterans groups and health advocates who say the products can be an effective way to quit smoking.
Nicotine pouches, which provide nicotine without the tar or many of the toxic chemicals found in combustible cigarettes, are recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration as “appropriate for the protection of public health.”
Veterans have a long history of higher smoking rates than the general population.
Studies showed that more than one-in-five veterans smoke, while about 14% of the US population smokes.
Experts say these numbers can be even higher for those who served in high-stress environments or combat zones.
Veterans advocates argue that nicotine pouches help many former service members transition away from smoking.
They point out that quitting cigarettes can be especially challenging for those who picked up the habit during active duty, when long hours and intense situations often led to heavy tobacco use.
Health data showed that smoking remains a leading cause of death among veterans, contributing to higher rates of lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.
Critics of the proposed nicotine pouch ban point out that limiting access to nicotine pouches could leave veterans with fewer harm-reduction tools and potentially push some back to smoking or into unregulated markets.
In the Finger Lakes region of New York state, local health programs have introduced nicotine pouches as a promising tool to help residents quit smoking.
Health providers in the area have reported that the discreet and convenience of nicotine pouches encourage more smokers to participate in smoking cessation programs.
Early results suggest that using nicotine pouches can effectively curb cigarette cravings and contribute to healthier outcomes for the region.
A partial ban already happened in Canada, where nicotine pouches are now only available at pharmacies and only in mint, menthol, or flavourless options.
Currently, Zonnic is the only licenced nicotine pouch brand in Canada.
New York state already has high levels of illicit tobacco sales, according to recent government studies.
Some experts warn that banning nicotine pouches could add another product to underground supply chains, where there is little oversight of ingredients or quality.
This situation could create safety risks for those who continue to seek nicotine pouches but can no longer purchase them legally.
Supporters of harm-reduction strategies encourage policymakers to expand access to smoking cessation resources tailored to veterans, promote evidence-based nicotine alternatives, and address the illicit market through stricter enforcement.
They say such steps would help those trying to quit cigarettes without penalizing them for using products deemed less harmful and proven as an effective quitting smoking product.
New York legislators have not yet announced a final decision on the proposed ban.
However, this proposed ban highlights a larger discussion about how best to reduce smoking rates while ensuring veterans have safer options for managing their cigarette smoking addiction.
