Study finds post-ban 'unflavoured' nicotine pouches chemically and sensorially similar to pre-ban flavoured products
Crisp on the outside, thoughtful on the inside. A keeper.
Summary
This study analyzed oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) marketed before and after California's 2022 flavour ban, focusing on ZYN's 'unflavoured' postban products (Classic and Original) compared to preban 'flavour-ban approved' products (Chill and Smooth). Chemical analysis revealed that Chill and Classic contained WS-3 (a synthetic coolant) at consistent levels, while Smooth and Original contained neither menthol nor WS-3. Chill and Classic extracts activated the cold/menthol TRPM8 receptor similarly and were rated by young adult participants as having stronger cooling sensations and minty flavour compared to Smooth. The study concludes that the tobacco industry exploits regulatory loopholes by using concept names and sensory cues to disguise flavours and maintain appeal of banned products among young populations.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledThe tobacco industry exploits legislative loopholes by introducing products with novel constituents, sensory features and/or branding to bypass flavour restrictions and maintain appeal, particularly among young populations.
Preban and postban ONPs showed similar chemical, sensory and appeal profiles based on WS-3 presence.
By using concept names and sensory cues to disguise flavours and additives, the industry exploits regulatory loopholes to sustain marketing of banned products.
Extracts of 'Chill' and 'Classic' robustly activated the cold/menthol TRPM8-receptor with similar potency and efficacy while weakly activating the sensory irritant TRPA1 receptor.
Compared with 'Smooth', human participants rated 'Chill' and 'Classic' as having stronger cooling sensations (p<0.05), while 'Classic' was rated as more minty flavoured (p<0.005).
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