We’ll run through the key factors New Zealanders look for when weighing up their portion options, and what makes VELO and ZYN nicotine pouches such standout choices.

What Makes ZYN and VELO Popular Nicotine Pouches in New Zealand?

When it comes to buying nicotine pouches in New Zealand, the landscape is fairly unique. Retailers within the country cannot legally sell them, but Kiwis can still import them for personal use as long as the products meet certain criteria.

This undoubtedly shapes preferences, but New Zealand is also influenced by global trends. Many local users follow what’s popular overseas and online.

Both of these factors help explain the dominance of VELO and ZYN.

Tobacco-Derived Nicotine

As mentioned, legislation requires nicotine pouches to meet specific criteria before they can be imported into New Zealand. One of the most important requirements is that products must use tobacco-derived nicotine rather than synthetic nicotine, unless the synthetic nicotine product is approved for medicinal or therapeutic use.

Regardless of personal preference, this creates a clear legal limitation.

Fortunately, both ZYN pouches and VELO pouches use tobacco-derived nicotine. This gives them a natural advantage in New Zealand, although many other pouch brands also meet the same requirement.

Global Trends

Since nicotine pouches cannot be legally purchased in New Zealand stores, the country has not developed a completely unique pouch culture. Instead, users are heavily influenced by trends overseas and online.

ZYN is easily one of the most talked-about nicotine pouch brands on social media and across the digital world. That visibility has undoubtedly contributed to its popularity in New Zealand.

New Zealand also has strong historical ties to the UK, where VELO is extremely popular, alongside being one of the leading brands across Europe.

Then there’s Australia. Nicotine pouches are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, where they can still be legally purchased in most parts of the country. ZYN is also a major player there. Given the close relationship and regular travel between Australia and New Zealand, it’s likely this has further boosted awareness of ZYN among Kiwi users.

Great Taste Profiles

There’s no denying that global visibility and tobacco-derived nicotine have given ZYN and VELO a head start in New Zealand. Still, their popularity also comes down to product quality.

The VELO lineup includes an impressive variety of flavor profiles, from icy mint options like VELO Freezing Peppermint to the spicy yet fruity VELO Orange Spark. These products consistently receive strong reviews from Snusdirect customers.

Online Availability

Since users in New Zealand are limited to buying nicotine pouches online, they naturally gravitate toward products that are highly visible and easy to find.

ZYN dominates much of the online conversation, which gives the brand a major advantage. Likewise, VELO is one of the largest pouch brands globally and is prominently featured across many online retailers.

Why Nicotine Pouches Are Becoming More Popular in New Zealand

While the rise of VELO and ZYN nicotine pouches in New Zealand is particularly noticeable, the overall trend extends far beyond these two brands.

Here are a few reasons why more people are turning to nicotine pouches.

A Smoking Alternative

Across the world, many people have turned to nicotine pouches as an alternative to smoking. While there are some side effects of nicotine pouches, they are often viewed as a harm reduction option because they do not contain tobacco.

In New Zealand, around 8.3% of adults are current smokers, while 6.8% smoke daily. That represents a significant group of people who may consider switching to nicotine pouches.

Although this trend is not unique to ZYN and VELO, it helps explain why nicotine pouches are attracting so much attention overall. These two brands simply happen to be leading the conversation.

More Convenient to Use

For people already using nicotine products, whether tobacco or e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches can offer a more convenient experience.

Since they are tobacco-free, they do not cause smoke smells or tobacco stains, making them a more discreet option and a better choice for oral hygiene.

While e-cigarettes also avoid many of these issues, nicotine pouches have another advantage — they are extremely easy to use in public without attracting attention. Users simply place a pouch under the upper lip, where it remains discreet and barely noticeable to most people around them.

VELO and ZYN benefit from all of these advantages, alongside many other nicotine pouch brands.

It’s one of the many ways nicotine affects the body, alongside the metabolism and increased heart rate. In this article, we’ll cover the mechanisms behind nicotine’s impact on dreams and sleep, along with some guidance on how to reduce its impact.

How Nicotine Impacts Dreams

Nicotine suppresses something called ponto-geniculo-occipital (PGO) waves. These are brain signals that peak before we enter the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep stage, which is when the brain is most active — and when most dreams occur. While the precise role of PGO waves is still being studied, they’re believed to contribute to creating the visuals and imagery in dreams.

One reason this happens may be because nicotine imitates a brain chemical called acetylcholine, which is involved in dreaming and alertness. Nicotine can then hijack the system to boost brain activity and wakefulness exactly when we should be resting.

These mechanisms don't produce the same result in everyone. But below, we've highlighted some of the most commonly reported outcomes.

Nicotine and Lucid Dreams

Since nicotine imitates acetylcholine, it increases brain activity during REM sleep, and the brain struggles to differentiate between dream and waking states. This can lead to more “lucid” dreams (dreams in which you're aware you're dreaming).

Many report feeling more in control of their body and mind when dreaming after using nicotine. Not great for a restful night’s sleep, but successful lucid dreaming could be an unexpected perk for a minority of users!

It should be noted that nicotine isn't universally viewed as a helpful tool for lucid dreaming, however. The kind of wakefulness described can affect sleep quality, which is needed for sustainable lucid dreaming. Also, the impact can vary a lot depending on the person.

Nicotine and Dream Intensity

One study found that those who used nicotine patches had more vivid dreams and woke up more during the night compared to those wearing placebo patches with no nicotine. Often, intense dreams mean nightmares.

As an example of what we’re talking about, here’s a quote from a Vice article on nicotine dreaming:

“I had a dream where I was in Afghanistan and I had to hitch a ride on the back of a truck, but I ended up on a trailer that was on top of another trailer. I had to sit on that and hold some chains, to keep them together. And I lost part of my foot, it got gashed off, but I couldn’t yell because there was too much noise, and I couldn’t let go of the chain to signal anyone because I would have fallen off.”

Still, the impact is different for everyone. While some people report crazy dreams, others just find that they have a more restless sleep and wake up more often, or that nicotine stops them from sleeping altogether.

Nicotine and Sleep Quality

Perhaps unsurprisingly, having nightmares doesn’t result in a great night’s sleep. Often, people find themselves drifting in and out of consciousness or waking frequently through the night if they use nicotine.

One study that focused on cigarette users found that smokers have poorer sleep quality than non-smokers and even former smokers. There is limited information on the impact of nicotine pouches or snus, but it’s reasonable to assume a similar effect.

How to Reduce the Impact of Nicotine on Sleep

Given that nicotine can disrupt dreams and sleep, most people are probably thinking “count me out” rather than “sign me up.”

The natural conclusion might be that it’s best to avoid nicotine altogether to improve sleep and dreams. But that’s not necessarily the case — at least not for those who are already heavy nicotine users and looking for immediate relief. Withdrawing from nicotine famously causes sleep disruption and insomnia (although this phase will eventually pass).

In the short term, the wisest way to minimize disruption is to use nicotine as little and as long before sleeping as possible — ideally at least four hours before hitting the pillow.

Besides, avoiding falling asleep with snus or nicotine pouches is a good idea. Doing so can cause unwanted side effects like gum irritation, since portions stay in for longer than they should.

What if There’s a Deeper Meaning?

For those who are prepared to embrace the weird and wacky, we’ve got something special to finish on.

The origins of tobacco lie in America, where it had spiritual uses for indigenous people and during ceremonies. For instance, the Yaminawa use tobacco to promote dreaming, alongside ayahuasca.

So for all we know, maybe those annoying nightmares could have a deeper meaning.

Funnily enough, two of the intellectuals best known for studying dreams, The Interpretation of Dreams author Sigmund Freud and master of dream symbolism Carl Jung, were both heavy tobacco users. Admittedly, this might have more to do with the fact they were alive during the heyday of tobacco rather than being a massive coincidence.

Nicotine pouches were invented in Sweden, so we couldn’t start this article by talking about any other nation.

There’s a long list of nicotine pouches made in Sweden, including but not limited to:

• Stingfree pouches. These portions use an innovative solution to prevent gum irritation. So not only are the pouches made in Sweden, but the technology was patented and developed in the country too — and it’s now recommended by Swedish dentists.
• KLINT nictoine pouches. This is a collection made by Swedish company The Habit Factory, a company that has been around since 2018 that is known for its innovative approach.
• C.r.e.a.m Nicotine Pouches. Don’t be fooled by the urban, American aesthetic. These pouches are actually made in Sweden.
• LOOP nicotine pouches. Another Snus Factory is a titan in the pouch industry, and it’s based in Stockholm, Sweden. This collection is all about loud, potent flavors.

The Almost-Traditional Choices: Finland and Denmark

Given the popularity of nicotine pouches in Sweden, it makes sense that word has spread to neighboring countries.

Denssi nicotine pouches are made in Finland, meaning they take inspiration from the Swedish roots of pouches but offer their own twist. The brand also comes with a very apt Viking theme, which shines through on every can design.

Then there are Ace nicotine pouches, made by the Danish manufacturer Ministry of Snus. It’s a company that loves to be creative and push boundaries, with flavor profiles like guarana chili and apple cinnamon.

The Eastern European Choice: Poland

We’re not sure why Poland has ended up being one of the top manufacturing destinations for nicotine pouches. But with the quality of the products coming from this European nation, we’re not mad about it.

One of the best-known Polish collections is 77 nicotine pouches. The company actually has more than 12 years in the wider tobacco industry, and it has applied that experience to the tobacco-free world through 77 pouches. The range contains one of the most comprehensive selections of flavors on the market, from fruit and mint combinations to unusual flavors like black currant and vanilla.

ICEBERG pouches are made in Poland by the manufacturer of the same name. The brand has a focus on quality and caters to a range of preferences, including sweet, fruity, and minty portions.

R4VE nicotine pouches are another Polish option. They bring a quirky touch to the pouch world thanks to the white-haired raver on the front of every can. Another reason they stand out is for the high nicotine content in every can.

The Baltic Choices: Estonia and Lithuania

Geographically, Baltic countries aren’t far from Scandinavia, so it makes sense that they’d catch on to the wonders of nicotine sachets.

NOIS pouches are made in Estonia by manufacturer HRJ Production OÜ. The collection uses high moisture levels, soft portion materials, and premium quality, while pouches have strengths ranging from 4mg to 12.5mg per pouch.

Another Baltic country that has entered the pouch game is Lithuania, the manufacturing home of CAMO pouches. The pouches made by a company called Global Snus UAB, and global they certainly are.

The Alpine Choice: Switzerland

Edel nicotine pouches are made by MultiFill AG in Switzerland. Every can reminds users of this fact, as there’s a mountain in the background on every can cover.

It’s a classy collection with various fruity and icy choices.

The Atlantic Choice: USA

While most nicotine pouch manufacturing is centered in Europe, pouches have been starting to garner a lot of attention in the US recently. As a result, pouch production is on the rise, with many American-made pouches entering the mainstream.

The first ZYN pouches were made in Gothenburg, Sweden, and pouches for the European market (the ones we sell here on Snusdirect) continue to be made there. But there are now factories in the US too — specifically, Owensboro in Kentucky and Aurora in Colorado.

The Eastern Choice: India

Nicotine pouches are spreading East as well as West, with some brands launching in Asia.

One of the most prominent manufacturers in the region is Dholakia Tobacco. It has an impressive CV that includes all the following:

• RUSH pouches. A collection of higher-strength portions with a wide range of icy and fruity taste profiles.
• Kozmo pouches. As the name suggests, this range has a galaxy theme. Similar to the other Dholakia brands when it comes to high strengths.
• PAZ pouches. Another high-strength collection. Despite being made in India, many of the portions in this collection actually have a Formula 1 racing theme.

The Wild Card Choice

VELO pouches are a market leader, so it’s only natural to wonder where it falls in this list. But the answer is: It depends. While VELO is a Swedish brand, it has factories in Hungary and Italy as well as Sweden.

For those who are really curious, it’s actually possible to figure out which country a can was made in with some detective work. Every can has a code on the back and the first two digits reveal the origin:

• 55: Pecs, Hungary
• BR: Malmo, Sweden
• 97: Trieste, Italy

For both existing fans and those who have never laid their hands on a NICO pouch before, there’s a good chance the new collection will have something to impress. In this blog, we’ll run through exactly what to expect.

Quick Summary:

• NICO’s rebrand involves new products with fresh names and designs.
• These new products also feature formats, strength levels, and moisture levels that are distinct from the old collection.
• NICO continues to focus on icy, minty taste profiles.
• The new pouches are made by the same manufacturer as before, but it has worked on improving the quality.

The New Taste Profiles: Subtly Different, Equally Refreshing

Previously, the NICO collection consisted of just two flavors: NICO Whip and NICO Lash.

These were both minty, with Whip Alpine featuring menthol and eucalyptus while Lash Glacier centered around peppermint and menthol.

Mint fans can rejoice, because the new NICO Mint Series also focuses on the “mentha” family. NICO Breeze Slim boasts a mint and menthol fusion for a refreshing taste that’s somewhat similar to Whip Alpine.

Meanwhile, the rest of the collection (such as NICO Ice Strong Slim and NICO Freeze Extra Strong Slim) combine menthol with peppermint instead, like Lash Glacier did.

But the old and new products are certainly not identical. A major difference is that new NICO pouches have moist contents, whereas the brand’s previous products were dry. This intensifies the experience somewhat by releasing the flavor faster.

The brand has also improved its quality — so even those who weren’t sold on the old pouches may enjoy the new collection!

A Fresh Feel and Fit

Taste profile often determines a nicotine pouch’s name, but it doesn’t define the whole pouch experience.

Another crucial difference between the old and new NICO products comes down to their format — a factor that has a huge impact on mouthfeel and the overall experience.

Previously, both NICO products had a slim format. Considering this is the best-selling shape on Snusdirect, it’s no surprise that it’s often the go-to. But thanks to NICO’s rebrand, the pouches no longer cater solely to the average customer.

While there are still three slim formats, there’s also a large option (NICO Extreme Ultra Strong Large). Large pouches provide a full-bodied experience that is often more popular among experienced users.

A New Start with New Strengths

Before, NICO’s “strong” product — NICO Whip — featured 8mg of nicotine per pouch. Meanwhile, its “extra strong” product — NICO Lash Glacier — offered 12mg of nicotine per pouch.

The rebrands consists of options with both lower and higher nicotine strengths:

• NICO Breeze Slim: 4mg per pouch
• NICO Ice Strong Slim: 10mg per pouch
• NICO Freeze Extra Strong Slim: 11.5mg per pouch
• NICO Extreme Ultra Strong Large: 16.6mg per pouch

This caters to a much wider range of customers, helping NICO to compete with the likes of Siberia and VELO.

Eye-Catching Designs

The old NICO collection featured cans with a solid white background and blue lettering (plus some icy slopes in the background and the strength ratings in red). The two products had different shades of blue to differentiate them.

With the new Mint Series, it’s far easier to tell the products apart since they each feature a can of a different color:

• NICO Breeze: Green (with white lettering)
• NICO Ice: Blue (with white lettering)
• NICO Freeze: White (with red lettering)
• NICO Extreme: Red (with white lettering)

This is a fairly intuitive system since the two higher-strength products feature red and white coloring.

What’s Staying the Same?

With NICO changing so much, some previous customers may be a little skeptical that the new products will do the old collection justice. But there are plenty of things staying the same!

For one, the mintiness of both the old and new products cannot be denied. Besides, there are still products available in broadly the same formats and strengths as before — there’s just more choice on offer.

The pouches also continue to be made by the same Swedish manufacturer, The Snus Factory. However, in the spirit of the rebrand, it has worked on boosting its quality standards and production processes.

The good news is that Snusdirect is very much open for business in New Zealand, and we stock various products that can be legally imported.

In this guide, we’ll run through current New Zealand legislation regarding nicotine products and how to buy some of the leading brands on the market.

Quick Takeaways

• Snus and tobacco-derived nicotine products can be imported into New Zealand for personal use.
• Synthetic nicotine products cannot be imported into New Zealand, unless for therapeutic use.
• Oral nicotine products cannot be distributed in New Zealand, but individuals can import them.
• Snusdirect sells a range of snus and nicotine pouches that can be imported into New Zealand.

The Legal Status of Oral Nicotione Products in New Zealand

In New Zealand, retailers can sell certain types of tobacco and nicotine products, although they are subject to strict regulations and restrictions. For instance, retailers can sell cigarettes, but they must smell of either menthol or manufactured tobacco.

Other categories of tobacco and nicotine products face even more stringent restrictions.

The New Zealand government updated the legal status of oral nicotine products in the country in January 2025, making it clear that it’s illegal to import them for retail or distribution (unless the products are approved medicines or psychoactive substances).ja det

Further guidelines from September 2025 state that:

“Any products where nicotine is absorbed primarily through the mouth by chewing or similar oral use must not be imported for sale, sold, packaged or distributed in New Zealand. This prohibition does not apply to products that have been given consent or provisional consent as a medicine under the Medicines Act 1981.”

However, this could be about to change. There have been some attempts to legalise these products, headed by Associate Health Minister Casey Costello. Now, the Cabinet has agreed in principle to allow the sale of snus and nicotine pouches.

These plans have attracted a lot of opposition, so it’s possible they won’t go through.

Can You Buy Snus in NZ?

Crucially, snus is an oral tobacco product. As a result, Kiwis won’t find snus in their local stores, but they can legally import it into New Zealand for personal use. Buying snus online is therefore legal, as long as you’re not planning to sell it to anyone else after.

This isn’t the case for products that use synthetic nicotine — but we’ll get to that shortly.

As well as snus, New Zealanders can import oral tobacco products like chewing tobacco and nasal snuff.

Are Nicotine Pouches Legal in New Zealand?

Although all nicotine pouches are oral nicotine products, their legal status can vary. This primarily depends on one factor — whether the product contains synthetic or non-synthetic nicotine (derived from the tobacco plant).

When pouches contain synthetic nicotine (meaning the nicotine is synthetically created in a lab), they cannot be legally imported into New Zealand — whether for distribution or personal use.

The only exception is when the product has been approved for medicinal or therapeutic use.

Fortunately, many of the most popular brands we stock here on Snusdirect do contain tobacco-derived nicotine.

Is ZYN Legal in NZ?

ZYN nicotine pouches use tobacco-derived nicotine, meaning New Zealanders are free to import them for their personal use.

However, bear in mind the Labour Government banned the sale of ZYNs and other nicotine pouches within New Zealand, so they won’t be sold in local stores.

Where Can I Buy ZYN from New Zealand?

Since ZYNs aren’t sold in local shops, buying them online is the easiest way to access them.

There are various online retailers that stock ZYN, including SnusDirect.

It may also be possible to travel with nicotine pouches on a plane and bring them into the country this way. However, it’s always best to check with the airline.

Which Other Nicotine Pouch Brands Are Available in New Zealand?

ZYN is probably the best-known nicotine pouch brand in the world, and there’s little denying that the products taste great. But believe it or not, there are other great brands out there!

Below, we’ve listed some of our best-selling options on Snusdirect.

Nico Nicotine Pouches

Nico nicotine pouches are Scandinavian through and through. They are produced in Scandinavia using traditional Swedish methods with premium Swiss ingredients, and quality is assured throughout the process.

NICO Ice Strong Slim 10mg provides a refreshing, cool taste focused on peppermint and contains 10 mg of nicotine.

Meanwhile, NICO Freeze Extra Strong Slim 11.5mg has a more potent peppermint flavor, with notes of menthol. This provides extra intensity, and it also contains more nicotine (11.5 mg per portion).

On! Nicotine Pouches

On! Nicotine pouches are another popular option. With fun flavors like Tropical Spice and Grapefruit Spritz as well as classics like Coffee and Mint, there’s something for everyone.

They’re made by major tobacco company Altria and come in various formats, including mint and slim.

VELO Nicotine Pouches

VELO might be a little-known brand in New Zealand, but it’s one of the biggest names on the market in Europe. Kiwis might just be missing a trick!

The popularity of VELO nicotine pouches is partly due to the wide range of flavors available, which include:

• Freezing Peppermint
• Purple Grape
• Bright Spearmint
• Tropical Mango

Where Can I Buy Snus in NZ?

Similarly, we sell a range of snus products on Snusdirect from popular brands like General, Göteborgs Rapé, Siberia, and Ettan.

Our selection includes:

• White portions
• Original portions
• Loose snus

As well as offering a very respectable selection, we pride ourselves on providing a convenient and effortless experience with competitive prices. We even have a rewards program that gives loyal customers free products when they build up points.

What if I Don’t Know if a Product Contains Synthetic Nicotine?

The New Zealand government has made it clear that individual consumers are responsible for verifying that a product is legal before they import it.

It says:

“If in doubt about the content of the product, including whether the nicotine content is derived from tobacco or is synthetic, the safest option is to not import, buy or use the product.”

We recommend sticking to the brands we’ve mentioned, but you can also contact us through the chatbot on our site. Our customer service team will respond promptly so you can buy in confidence!

This guide outlines the top ZYN alternatives to give other nicotine pouches the chance to shine, including the likes of Nico, Helwit, and On!

Best ZYN Alternatives

For most people, the biggest factor in whether or not a nicotine pouch hits right is its flavor, so we’ve ordered our recommended ZYN alternatives by their taste profile.

However, we’ve also considered other factors, such as:

• Nicotine contents per pouch. ZYN pouches contain between 1.5 mg and 11 mg per pouch.
• Moisture level. European ZYN pouches are dry, so other pouches with dry contents make the most natural substitutes.
• Size or format of the pouches. ZYN offers a mixture of mini and slim pouches rather than larger, full-bodied sizes.

Mint-Flavored Alternatives

Mint is the OG of nicotine pouch flavors, so it’s the natural place to kickstart this article.

Nico Whip Alpine Mint Strong Slim pouches are dry, mint-flavored, and contain 8 mg each, meaning they share similarities with ZYN in the three key areas. They’re an ideal option for intermediate users.

For those who want something more potent, there’s also Nico Lash Glacier X Mint Ultra Strong Slim. True to the name, the pouches boast 12 mg of nicotine each. Unlike the fresh eucalyptus flavor of Whip Alpine, Lash Glacier has a sharper peppermint taste.

Helwit Menthol offers a refreshing menthol taste that makes a good substitute for ZYN’s many mint products, such as ZYN Cool Mint, Cool Frost, and Deep Freeze. It contains 6 mg of nicotine per pouch, which is a regular strength that falls bang in the middle of the potency spectrum. They’re also slim and lightweight.

It’s also hard to go wrong with On! Nicotine pouches. The brand offers a classic mint flavor in three strengths (3 mg, 6 mg, and 9 mg), so there’s something to match ZYN at all potency levels. The pouches are sharp yet sweet, providing a refreshing taste that isn’t too overpowering.

Spearmint has the same refreshing characteristics as peppermint, but it has a milder and sweeter taste that makes it preferable for those who want a less intense mint experience.

One option here is Übbs Spearmint Strong, which contains 9 mg of nicotine per pouch for a strong solution. Although spearmint is typically a lighter mint, these pouches have a freezing effect that’s typically associated with peppermint. Talk about the best of both worlds!

Alternatively, on! Spearmint 3 is a lighter option with just 3mg of nicotine per pouch. It’s refreshing, subtly sweet, and ideal for an everyday pouch experience.

Citrus-Flavored Alternatives

For those who want a refreshing and enjoyable flavor that isn’t mint but also isn’t too “out-there” or divisive, citrus pouches are often a go-to.

ZYN’s citrus flavors combine elements of various citrus fruits, and there are a few other products on the market that use the same approach.

Exhibit A is Après No.10 Tangerine Spritz. Based on the popular cocktail drink of the same name, it boasts a zesty orange with moist contents, along with 4.4 mg of nicotine per pouch. There’s also a version with 8 mg per pouch for anyone seeking something stronger.

For those open to considering a nicotine-free replacement, WAKEY Citrus Blast is a strong choice. It mixes sharper, warmer, and sweeter tastes together, along with 50 mg of caffeine to provide a comparable experience to nicotine.

Coffee-Flavored Alternatives

Coffee is one of the world’s favorite beverages, so it’s no wonder that it has become a popular ZYN flavor.

On! Coffee is one of the best alternatives thanks to its creamy, slightly sweet coffee flavor. It also comes in the form of convenient mini pouches that fit effortlessly into the mouth, and it has dry contents for a balanced release of nicotine and flavor.

We’ve provided the link to the version with 3 mg per pouch above, but On! also provides a 6 mg version for those who want something a little stronger.

Or for something a bit different, Helwit Mocha has a more chocolate-esque coffee flavor, with hints of caramel thrown in.

Other ZYN Alternatives

Switching away from ZYN doesn’t necessarily mean choosing a product that’s as close to the previous flavor as possible. Why not try something completely new?

A few much-loved brands on Snusdirect worth checking out include:

• Killa nicotine pouches
• 77 nicotine pouches
• Lundgrens nicotine pouches

There are also plenty of exciting flavor profiles out there, from spicy choices to licorice.

What’s Happening with ZYN Right Now?

Not everyone is on the lookout for ZYN alternatives due to preference alone. As Snusdirect doesn’t sell ZYN to the US (and there’s currently a ZYN shortage in the region anyway), looking for an alternative is becoming a must for many customers.

For those who aren’t in the loop, here’s a brief update on what has been going on:

• In May 2024, high numbers of customers reported difficulties in finding products in their local shops.
• Many retailers imposed purchasing restrictions due to a lack of supply.
• Philip Morris International (PMI) is now building a second factory in the US to boost its supply.

Find a New Favorite Flavor

Opting for a ZYN alternative doesn't have to mean choosing second best. There are still plenty of great brands and taste profiles on the market just waiting to be discovered.

Check out what Snusdirect has to offer and enjoy the journey!

We’ve done our best to round up a selection with something for everyone, followed by a breakdown of the elements that give a nicotine pouch the “it” factor.

What are the Best Nicotine Pouches 2025?

“Best” might be a strong word, but we’ve narrowed down a few products that every pouch fan should have on their radar.

In no particular order, let’s look at five of the crème de la crème.

1. LOOP Smooth Mint Strong

With its perfectly balanced mint flavor, super-soft portions, and 9.5 mg of nicotine, LOOP Smooth Mint is a dream for menthol lovers. It might be from Another Snus Factory, but it’s more than just another nicotine pouch.

2. Nico Whip Alpine Mint Strong Slim

NICO is one of the most exciting up-and-coming brands on the market. This nicotine pouch contains 8 mg of nicotine per pouch, which is an ideal intermediate strength. It combines menthol and eucalyptus, which makes a welcome change from the usual peppermint. Contents are dry for a balanced release.

3. 77 Cola & Vanilla Medium

While this list is quite mint-centric, there are plenty of great nicotine pouches with different flavor profiles — and 77 Cola & Vanilla demonstrates this perfectly. Cola is one of the most-loved beverages worldwide, and this pouch packs that sweet flavor into pouches for an enjoyable experience. They have 10 mg of nicotine each and are made of soft materials.

4. Ace Cool Mint Low

We had to include a low-strength option here, and Ace Cool Mint Low fits the bill here. As well as having a 4 mg per pouch option, it uses milder, sweeter spearmint. The brand is made by the Danish manufacturer Ministry of Snus, which has a reputation for premium products and listening to what customers want. This shines through in its pouches.

5. on! Mint 6

On! is something of a staple brand on Snusdirect. While other brands often chase the “next big thing,” On! keeps its range simple by offering a few classic flavors in three strength levels — 3 mg, 6 mg, and 9 mg. But On! often comes out on top as the most popular of all, combining the most-loved flavor with a moderate strength. Is this the perfect nicotine pouch?

How to Choose the Best Nic Pouches for You

Since taste is so subjective, there’s always a chance that someone reading this won’t like any of the five products highlighted above.

So for any contrarians out there, we’ve included a quick guide on finding the perfect nicotine pouch by outlining the key factors to look out for.

Flavor

We’ve already seen that mint leads the way as the top pouch flavor, and 2025 is unlikely to be the year that changes.

But mint isn’t what makes everyone tick, and there are plenty of other up-and-coming flavor profiles to look out for, including:

• Spicy
• Coffee
• Tropical fruits

Strengths

No matter how much something pleases the taste buds, it won’t quite hit the spot if it isn’t the right strength level.

Here’s what to expect:

• Low (3-6 mg per pouch): For those who still have a low nicotine tolerance. Might be too weak for experienced users.
• Regular (6-8 mg per pouch): A steady release that makes it suitable for using pouches throughout the day.
• Strong (8-12 mg per pouch): A more potent sensation for experienced users.
• Extra Strong (12 mg per pouch): The most potent of all.

Format

Most nicotine pouches are a slim format since this shape slots easily into the mouth under the upper lip. But some people like mini pouches for a truly ergonomic experience, or a bigger pouch for some extra intensity.

Moisture Content

Some people like their nicotine pouches dry for a prolonged, balanced release, while others prefer the more intense experience that moist pouches provide.

What About the Best Nicotine Pouch Brands?

Thought we were done discussing the factors that make for a great nicotine pouch? Not quite — it’s also worth thinking about the brand.

VELO nicotine pouches are the most popular in Europe, so it would be rude not to mention them here. They provide a fantastic range of flavors, from peppermint to grapes to licorice, as well as various strength levels. There’s also a tobacco-free range called VELO Zero.

Some other honorable brand mentions include:

• Lundgrens
• Helwit
• Killa
• Kelly White

How to Find the Most Popular Nicotine Pouches on Snusdirect

We update this list of the top nicotine pouches ranked every year, so all these products are fresh choices for 2025.

But for those who want an even more up-to-date reveal of Snusdirect’s top products, there’s always the option to check out our bestsellers page. This is updated frequently and displays the products most customers are buying the most.

In fact, there are countless Siberia snus alternatives, including for popular lines like -80 Degrees snus or All White pouches. This guide will focus on tobacco-free nicotine pouches that offer a similar experience.

How to Find the Right Substitute

Purchasing random products in the hopes that eventually one will turn out to be the perfect Siberia replacement isn’t the best way to find a new favorite. Breaking down the characteristics that make a product so great is far more effective!

This might vary somewhat from person to person, but Siberia products are best known for their:

• Intensity. Siberia snus contains 30 mg of nicotine per portion and more, while nicotine pouches contain 16.5-25 mg each.
• Mintiness. Siberia is named after its icy flavor. In the case of its snus products, this flavor is sometimes paired with a tobacco taste.
• Moisture level. Siberia nicotine pouches have moist contents, adding to their intensity. There’s some variation in snus, but the most popular products are dry portions.

Users should also take care to choose a substitute with the same format as the product they’re looking to replace. Is it mini? Slim? Something else?

Best Minty Alternatives to Siberia Nicotine Pouches

Icy, mouth-numbing flavors are what Siberia is best known for. This shines through in both -80 Degrees snus portions and All White nicotine pouches.

Since all minty products from Siberia have the same menthol taste, we’ve categorized our substitutes based on strength levels rather than product-by-product.

Moderate Strength

Since this is a blog post about Siberia alternatives, we figured we’d skip the low-strength stuff! On Snusdirect, we define “strong” nicotine pouches as falling within the 8-10 mg per pouch range.

77 Fresh Mint Medium boasts a refreshing taste combined with 10mg of nicotine per pouch, so it fits the bill. The pouches are slim.

Those who are a bit more adventurous and prepared to venture further out from the typical mint flavor could also consider some of 77’s flavor combinations, such as:

• Peach & Mint
• Melon & Mint
• Apple & Mint

High Strength

Moving things up a notch, extra strong pouches have 11-16 mg of nicotine.

Nico Lash Glacier X Mint pouches contain 12 mg of nicotine each, offering a comparable strength. They have a peppermint and menthol flavor profile to make the mouth tingle, formulated from the finest Swiss ingredients.

Another option is Killa Cold Mint. These are slim pouches, which contain 12.5 mg of nicotine each, along with a mouth-numbing menthol flavor and moist contents. Just like Siberia, Killa has a reputation for intensity (if you couldn’t guess based on the name).

Super Strength

Few brands can match Siberia when it comes to super-strength. But ICE just might come close.

ICE Reaper XL Super Strong contains 20 mg of nicotine per pouch, making it one of the most potent products we stock. Although the pouches contain mint, they’re far from ordinary, as they use one of the hottest chilis in the world to up the intensity. Plus, contents are moist and the pouches are large.

Best Tobacco-Flavored Alternatives to Siberia

Finding a tobacco-free alternative to a tobacco-flavored product might sound tough, but don’t underestimate nicotine pouch manufacturers. Some innovative companies have found ways to mimic a similar taste profile without using tobacco as an ingredient, meaning there are various alternatives to Siberia’s original portions and its Black range.

Nicotine Pouch Options

Lungrens is one of the best in the game here. The brand was launched by British American Tobacco as a tobacco-free alternative to its snus products, and it can fulfil the same role for Siberia fans.

Top options include:

• Lundgrens Höståker All White. Boasts an autumnal, earthy tobacco flavor with hints of dried fruits. It contains 10 mg of nicotine per pouch.
• Lundgrens Mörk All White. Has a deep tobacco flavor and contains 8mg of nicotine per pouch.

Both of these come in original full-bodied sizes.

Nicotine-Free Options

It’s also possible to enjoy a tobacco-esque flavor without consuming any tobacco at all. There are more nicotine-free products than ever, and some of them emulate a traditional snus flavor.

For instance, Onico White Portion uses plants to create a flavor similar to tobacco, alongside hints of citrus, pepper, and bergamot.

Another option is Qvitt Original, which has undertones of citrus, green tea, and carrot for a distinctly snus flavor.

This guide runs through the best substitutes for the entire collection, from All White Slim Portion to Full Charge. All these options are available on Snusdirect.

How to Find the Best White Fox Alternative

To find a suitable White Fox alternative, the first step is to break down exactly what makes this brand so great. Then, it’s possible to identify other options with similar characteristics.

So, what are these characteristics we speak of? The most important are:

• High strengths. All White Fox nicotine pouches contain between 12mg and 22.5mg per portion.
• Slim or large formats. Some pouches boast the popular slim format, while others provide a more full-bodied experience with larger pouches.
• Potent flavors. White Fox pouches may have a flavor profile based on tobacco, mint, or even pepper. But while these tastes sound different, they have one thing in common — their intensity.
• Balanced moisture level. White Fox pouches are somewhere between moist and dry, offering the best of both worlds when it comes to the release of flavor and moisture.

Alternatives to White Fox All White Slim

All White Slim was almost always Snusdirect’s best-selling White Fox product, and it didn’t happen by chance. These pouches have developed a reputation for an intense minty sensation that tastes just like being in the icy mountains. With 12mg of nicotine per portion, the pouches are also high-strength.

The good news is there are various suitable substitutes:

• Après No.1 Menthol Extra Strong. These pouches contain 8mg of nicotine each, which is less than WF. But what they lack in strength, they make up for in moistness and mintiness.
• Nico Lash Glacier X Mint Ultra Strong Slim. Just like All White Slim, these pouches contain 12 mg of nicotine each. They have a balanced mint flavor that draws on peppermint and menthol.
• Killa Cold Mint. With 12.5mg of nicotine per pouch, Killa is a strong match for White Fox when it comes to strength. The pouches also have an icy, menthol taste to add to the intensity.

Alternatives to White Fox Double Mint Slim

Does twice the mint mean twice the fun? Double Mint Slim has just as much nicotine as All White Slim, but the flavor differs slightly, providing an icy yet refreshing experience.

VILD Kuling is another nicotine pouch that also promises a double dose of mint. It contains 8mg per pouch, slightly less than Double Mints 12mg. However, it may feel more intense due to the high moisture levels of the pouches.

For those who want to take the opportunity to seek a lower-strength alternative, VILD Bris has a very similar flavor but with just 5.6mg of nicotine per pouch. Could it be “the one”?

Alternatives to White Fox Full Charge

Full Charge has the honor of being the only item in the White Fox collection with large nicotine pouches. These portions also contain 16mg each and have White Fox’s trademark mint flavor, with a subtle sweetness layered in.

Lundgrens Rimfrost is another popular product that combines mintiness (in this case, eucalyptus) with large portions. It contains a little less nicotine, with 10mg per pouch — but that’s still a significant amount.

For those who want something stronger, head straight to the section below.

Alternatives to White Fox Peppered Mint Slim

White Fox is known for its high strengths, but potency isn’t just about the nicotine contents — flavor can also play a big role. Peppered Mint has proven this by using black pepper to (literally) spice things up. The chili will set the mouth on fire, then the peppermint cools it down. Pouches contain 12mg of nicotine.

Luckily for pouch users, brands have cottoned on to the possibilities to offer unique sensations by combining spice with their usual flavors. This means there are a few potential alternatives to Peppered Mint.

For instance, ICE Reaper XL Super Strong fuses the flavor of refreshing mint with the famous Carolina Reaper chili, largely regarded as the world’s hottest pepper. Need we say more? It provides a whopping 20mg of nicotine per pouch, which is a lot more than Peppered Mint Slim.

Alternatives to White Fox Black Slim

White Fox Black is practically unique in the nicotine pouch world for mixing rose petals with a smoky tobacco flavor — all while remaining tobacco-free! The pouches contain 22.5 mg of nicotine, making them the strongest of the bunch.

Honestly, no product can quite match it. But there are a few nicotine pouches that emulate a tobacco flavor without using tobacco. One example is 77 Classic Tobacco Medium, which opts for a spicy edge. Pouches contain 10mg of nicotine each, which admittedly is a step down (but still strong by most peoples’ standards).

This guide starts by outlining what makes VELO pouches so special, before delving into alternatives for various flavor profiles.

What to Look For in a VELO Replacement

It’s no accident that VELO products are great — the pouches have been carefully formulated to ensure they’re just what people are looking for.

That can be explained through the following factors:

• Moisture contents. VELO pouches are moist, meaning they release contents and flavor fast and create a more intense experience than dry options.
• Strength. The pouches contain between 4mg and 17mg per pouch, meaning there’s something for everyone.
• Format. Pouches in the collection have a slim or mini format, both of which are the most popular options for pouch users since they slot so effortlessly into the mouth.
• Flavor. VELO pouches come in all kinds of weird and wonderful flavors, from pineapple to elderflower to cinnamon.

Bear in mind that the above only applies to European products, which are sold on Snusdirect.

In this guide, we’ll highlight products that match as many of the criteria above as possible. There’s no need to say goodbye forever. But why not try something new today?

Alternatives to Minty VELO Pouches

Impartial to a bit of peppermint? Sucker for spearmint? Whatever the case, we have some suitable alternatives below.

Alternatives to Peppermint Products

Peppermint is one of VELO’s most popular flavor profiles. In fact, it’s so popular that the collection contains multiple options!

Mighty Peppermint 17mg is a super-strong slim pouch. For lovers of these high strengths, we recommend the following alternatives:

• CAMO Peppermint Strong: Slim pouches with 12 mg of nicotine per pouch and a sharp peppermint flavor.
• Nico Lash Glacier X Mint UltraStrong Slim: These pouches also have a slim format and contain 12 mg of nicotine each. They contain menthol alongside peppermint for a true mint experience.
• ICE Reaper XL Super Strong. The ultimate minty experience, with 20mg of nicotine per pouch. ICE goes a step further than Mighty Peppermint in the intensity stakes, using large pouches that weigh 1g each and adding a hint of spice.

For those looking for alternatives to the less potent peppermint options, such as VELO Mighty Peppermint 14mg or 11mg, VELO Crispy Peppermint, or VELO Peppermint Storm, we suggest:

• 77 Fresh Mint Medium. The pouches contain 10mg of nicotine each, which is the same as VELO Crispy Peppermint Slim and slightly less than VELO Mighty Peppermint. The pouches are slim and somewhat moist.
• Lundgrens Rimfrost All White. These pouches combine herbal eucalyptus with garden mint for a cooling, fresh taste, offering a slightly different flavor to peppermint. They’re also full-sized and have 10mg of nicotine per pouch.

Alternatives to Spearmint Products

While some love the intensity and fieriness of peppermint, the sharpness of this mint isn’t for everyone. A common alternative is the gentler, sweeter taste of spearmint.

VELO offers both VELO Witty Spearmint Slim (6mg of nicotine per pouch), and VELO Spiffy Spearmint (4mg of nicotine per pouch).

While spearmint pouches tend to be less popular than their peppermint counterparts, they’re still popular enough to be offered by plenty of brands. A standout product is Übbs Spearmint Strong, nicotine pouches that contain 11mg of content each. The slim pouches are moist, just like VELO, so make for an ideal substitute.

Alternatives to Fruity VELO Pouches

VELO is well-known for offering countless fruity options. Below, we’ve highlighted alternatives to some of the most-loved options.

Alternatives to Lime Flame

It would be fair to assume Lime Flame is a more unique option since it fuses the citrus taste of lime with a dose of spice. But fortunately, it’s not so unique that there are no alternatives on the market.

The products below make for fantastic substitutes:

• Après No.9 Cactus Lime Extra Strong. These pouches may sound miles apart since they fuse lime with cactus instead of spice. But this fusion creates a doubly sour effect that also packs a punch. They also contain 8mg of nicotine each, just like Lime Flame.
• Kelly White Raspberry Lemon. Enjoy a sour lemon taste alongside hints of tart raspberry for a fruity taste that isn’t overly sweet. Pouches contain 5.5mg of nicotine each.

Alternatives to Orange Spark

Snusdirect sells a range of other citrus pouches that provide potential alternatives to products like Orange Spark.

One option is Helwit Orange. These pouches combine orange with a hint of mint, which creates a comparable sensation to the “tingling” effect of Orange Spark. Each pouch contains 4.5mg of nicotine.

Alternatives to Groovy Grape

VELO’s Groovy Grape is loved for its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, and the pouches contain 10mg of nicotine each.

There’s no other pouch with a grape flavor with similar nicotine contents. However, for those who just can’t get enough of grapes, ICE Grape Super Strong is a potential alternative. It combines the juiciness of grapes with a dose of iciness, along with 15.5mg of nicotine per pouch — but bear in mind it’s one of the strongest we stock on Snusdirect, so only experienced pouch users should consider this one.

Alternatives to Breezy Mango

While Breezy Mango only has one fruit in its name, it isn’t all about mango. The product also uses the flavors of mandarin and passionfruit for a mixed tropical taste, along with 6mg of nicotine.

For those who want to take their exotic experience to the next level, consider on! Tropical Spice 6mg. It has a similar tropical taste profile, but combines this with chilli and other spices to create something a little different. Pouches contain 6 mg of nicotine each, just like Breezy Mango.