Counterfeit nicotine products, including nicotine pouches, are increasingly entering the market, raising serious concerns over health risks and safety. Experts from Alternix have warned users to exercise caution and shared tips to identify and avoid counterfeit products.
The sale of illegal tobacco, vapes, and cigarettes has surged in the UK, with government initiatives focusing on cracking down on non-compliant products. As nicotine pouches gain popularity among smokers looking for alternatives, counterfeit versions of these products are also becoming more widespread.
David Phillips from Alternix, a company specialising in nicotine products, emphasised the importance of purchasing from legitimate sources to avoid health hazards.
Key signs of counterfeit nicotine pouches
Phillips outlined several ways consumers can identify fake nicotine pouches:
- Price. Products being sold at a significantly lower price than usual could be a warning sign. Consumers are advised to research standard prices to better identify suspiciously cheap alternatives.
- Packaging. Legitimate products feature high-quality packaging with unbroken seals. Buyers should check for signs of tampering, spelling errors, and inconsistencies in branding compared to the manufacturer’s official packaging.
- QR codes. Genuine nicotine pouches often include QR codes or serial numbers that link directly to the manufacturer’s website. If the code is missing or redirects to an unreliable source, the product is likely counterfeit.
- Trusted retailers. Consumers should stick to reputable retailers, such as supermarkets, authorised manufacturers, or specialist websites. Online marketplaces and private sellers, such as those on Facebook or Gumtree, are not recommended, as reviews and product authenticity cannot always be verified.
The dangers of counterfeit products
Phillips warned that counterfeit nicotine pouches pose serious health risks. “Using counterfeit nicotine pouches is highly risky, as they can contain unknown and unregulated chemicals, inconsistent nicotine levels, and are produced without any quality or safety controls. This can lead to serious health risks, including nicotine poisoning, chemical burns, and long-term harm to your health,” he said.
The health risks are particularly concerning for those using nicotine pouches as a smoking cessation aid. Phillips noted that counterfeit products, which often contain inconsistent nicotine levels, can hinder users’ progress in managing cravings effectively.
Recent enforcement efforts have led to increased seizures of counterfeit nicotine products across the country. But with the rise in availability, the responsibility also falls on consumers to ensure they are purchasing from trusted sources.
This article was written by Psychreg News Team from www.psychreg.org
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