Arsenic, lead, antimony… heavy metals detected in “pouches”, these flavored nicotine sachets intended for young people

Arsenic and other heavy metals have been found in seven products from four different manufacturers of “pouches” (flavored nicotine pouches), according to a study by the National Institute for Consumer Affairs.

According to a study by the National Institute for Consumption (INC), conducted in partnership with the National Committee against Smoking (CNCT) consulted by Franceinfo, “pouches”, these flavored nicotine pouches, contain high levels of arsenic, a carcinogenic substance.

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Intended for young people

Intended primarily for young people, these products, the ban of which had been announced at the end of October by the resigning Minister of Health Geneviève Darrieussecq, were analyzed in laboratory.

Seven products from four different brands (Zyn, Velo, D’lice and Nois), among the most commonly available in France, were examined.

The analysis revealed not only high concentrations of nicotine, but also the presence of heavy metals, including arsenic, as well as high levels of sweeteners such as sucralose, according to the INC report.

Five heavy metals detected in these pouches

During laboratory tests, the INC detected up to five different heavy metals in these pouches, including arsenic, present in all the brands analyzed, sometimes up to 6.5 times the quantities found in a cigarette.

Arsenic, a known carcinogen, respiratory irritant, and toxic if ingested, is a particular concern. Some brands also contain lead, antimony (a potential carcinogen), and formaldehyde, a toxic and corrosive substance.

The study also found that nicotine levels listed on the boxes do not match actual product levels, with differences ranging from 20% to 73% depending on the brand. Pouches can contain up to 38.9 mg/g of nicotine, nearly ten times more than nicotine gum sold in pharmacies, which is limited to 4 mg/g.