FDA allows Philip Morris to market Zyn nicotine pouches as less harmful
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced that it will permit Philip Morris to market its Zyn nicotine pouches as less harmful compared to traditional cigarettes, reports BritPanorama.
The FDA’s decision enables the company to promote 20 variants of Zyn products, asserting that “using ZYN instead of cigarettes puts you at a lower risk of mouth cancer, heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.”
These nicotine pouch products had been awaiting FDA clearance as scientists expressed concerns over potential risks, particularly to new users, including minors. As the market evolves, tobacco companies have been lobbying U.S. officials for regulatory changes that would streamline the FDA authorization process, enhancing their ability to compete in a rapidly changing environment.
The FDA stated in its order that the pouches “would significantly reduce harm and the risk of tobacco-related disease to individual tobacco users and benefit the health of the population as a whole.” Nicotine pouches are now the fastest-growing nicotine product in the U.S., with millions of users. Philip Morris reported selling 794 million cans of Zyn in 2025, more than double its sales from 2023.
Axios initially reported this development earlier on Tuesday. Philip Morris had also recently cut its annual profit forecast for the second time this month. CEO Jacek Olczak noted at the Deutsche Bank global consumer conference that the FDA’s recent regulatory relaxations on unauthorized vaping and nicotine pouches are viewed as a “net positive” that will bolster category growth.
The decision reflects an ongoing trend within the tobacco industry as it navigates a transition toward less harmful alternatives while addressing regulatory challenges and health considerations.
