Sweetening a new addiction: Researchers found sugar substitutes in nicotine spiders.

For several years now, a product has emerged in the market aimed at helping individuals reduce their dependence on traditional tobacco. To enhance its appeal, researchers have developed a version that includes ingredients which may attract a younger audience. An article from Duke University School of Medicine discusses how science aims to popularize nicotine pouches.

A recent study conducted by the Duke University School of Medicine revealed that leading brands of oral nicotine pouches (ONP) contain artificial sweeteners, which potentially increase their attractiveness and consumption. The research, led by Dr. Sairam V. Jabba, a toxicologist and senior researcher in the anesthesiology department at Duke University, found that sweeteners such as acesulfame-K and sucralose are present in popular brands.

These compounds, which are 200-700 times sweeter than table sugar, were detected even in unflavored varieties, with quantities ranging from 0.3 to 1.2 milligrams per pouch. Dr. Jabba noted, "The artificial sweeteners added to nicotine pouches have a similar masking effect, reducing the bitterness of nicotine and leading to increased consumption." In experiments involving mice, researchers observed that the presence of these sweeteners resulted in a significant increase in nicotine consumption.

Mice that were genetically modified to lack sweet taste receptors consumed less nicotine solutions than their counterparts, indicating that sweeteners effectively mask the inherent bitterness of nicotine, making the product more palatable. This masking effect is particularly significant, considering the potential impact of such alternatives to smoking on adolescents and young adults.

However, the study, co-authored by Dr. Sven-Erik Jordt, an associate professor in the anesthesiology department at Duke University, emphasizes that the sweetened nature of these pouches may make them more popular among young people, potentially leading to increased nicotine consumption in this demographic. Oral nicotine pouches gained popularity following their introduction to the U.S. market in 2016.

These small, tobacco-free pouches are placed between the lip and gum, delivering nicotine along with additional flavorings and sweeteners into the body. Although they are marketed as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco products, the inclusion of potent sweeteners raises concerns among scientists regarding their role in the development of nicotine dependence, particularly among youth.

Artificial sweeteners like acesulfame-K and sucralose are commonly used in various food and beverage products to provide sweetness without extra calories. However, their use in promoting nicotine products highlights the need for careful oversight by regulatory agencies. Dr. Jabba believes that if sweetness is viewed as a key component of the product's flavor, it could help reduce its appeal, especially for new users, and potentially decrease the likelihood of initiating nicotine use in its various forms.

The study was published in the journal Nicotine and Tobacco Research and received funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the National Institutes of Health, and the Tobacco Products Center of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.