Senator Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) is urging federal action against Zyn nicotine pouches, citing concerns about high nicotine levels targeting young individuals through social media. Schumer is calling for investigations by the FTC and FDA into the company’s marketing practices and the health effects of its products.
Zyn, among other brands, produces small pouches of nicotine powder for oral consumption. While there is no long-term research on the health effects, nicotine is addictive and may increase relapse risks for former smokers.
This move aligns with previous actions by the Biden administration, which expressed intentions in 2021 to ban menthol cigarettes. However, the implementation of the ban was delayed last month due to concerns about potential alienation of black voters before the 2024 election.
Senator Tom Cotton (R., Ark.) has warned that terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah could exploit the proposed menthol cigarette ban, turning it into a profitable venture through illegal sales on the black market.
