California is among the US states that have placed the heaviest restrictions on tobacco products (including nicotine pouches). But the good news is that it’s still possible to buy nicotine pouches in California. Prilla stocks some of the best California-authorized brands, such as on! and ZYN — with deliveries arriving in just 1-5 days.
This article explains all Californians need to know about buying nicotine pouches, including a breakdown of state rules and regulations and how to purchase through Prilla.
The Nicotine Pouch Flavor Ban in California
California first banned flavored tobacco products in December 2022. Known as Proposition 31, this measure prohibited physical stores from selling flavored nicotine pouches.
In August 2024, the California legislature passed two more laws to tighten restrictions on flavored tobacco products:
- AB 3218: Amended the California Revenue and Taxation Code to clarify that online retailers must comply with the same restrictions as physical retailers.
- SB 1230: Banned all retailers from selling products that aren’t on the new Unflavored Tobacco List (UTL).
Another change was the expansion of the definition of “nicotine” in the flavor ban to include synthetic nicotine and not just tobacco-derived nicotine.
Starting on 1 January 2026, these laws came into effect.
The Unflavored Tobacco List
The Department of Justice (DOJ) compiled the aforementioned list of state-approved unflavored tobacco products, which the Attorney General published on December 31, 2025. This includes nicotine pouches.
To make it onto the initial Unflavored Tobacco List, tobacco manufacturers had to submit their application by October 9, 2025. However, manufacturers can request the inclusion of their products at any time (they may receive approval, denial, or a request for more information).
Californian enforcement agencies will seize any tobacco products that don’t appear on the list and penalize those selling them.
What Nicotine Pouch Flavors are Banned in California?
All flavored pouches, whether mint or fruit, are prohibited in California. However, tobacco-flavored products are not classified as “flavored,” meaning users in California can buy some tobacco-inspired products, like zone Tobacco 9mg.
Of course, only products that appear on the Unflavored Tobacco List are available for sale in California.
Is it Legal to Buy ZYN Online in California?
Only unflavored ZYN products are legal in California (ZYN Original and ZYN Smooth), and only to those aged 21 or older.
Despite the legality of these products, the rules and regulations can often change, and quickly — the flavor ban is a prime example.
How to buy nicotine pouches in California
When shopping in brick-and-mortar retailers in California, the only available products on the shelves are those that appear on the Unflavored Tobacco List. However, some shops may stock limited options, or no nicotine pouches at all.
When buying nicotine pouches online, the process may be more confusing since some online retailers display all products they sell in the US, regardless of the customer’s state. We like to make things as easy as possible on Prilla, so we have a dedicated page for the full list of products available in California.
To avoid disappointment and confusion, Californian shoppers should be sure to stick to this page.
Other than that, the process is the same as it would be when buying nicotine pouches on Prilla from any other state:
- Add the product(s) to the cart.
- Follow the instructions in the checkout system.
- Enter shipping details and preferred payment method, and verify your age.
- Hit order.
- Relax and wait. Once the shipment is ready to be delivered, a member of our team will contact you by phone.
Remember, if you have any trouble or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to our support team at contact@prilla.com, who are always happy to help.
Don’t Be Alarmed If We Call You
To adhere to state regulations in California, we must call customers before their items can be shipped. Therefore, make sure to leave an active number where we can contact you.
Top Nicotine Pouch Brands to Buy in California.
So, which unflavored nicotine pouch will it be? With so many different brands, it can be tough to choose.
Below are our top three suggestions:
- FRE pouches: This brand is a gem for Californian customers, with a very comprehensive selection of unflavored products. Choose between “Sweet” or “Original”, with nicotine strengths of 3mg, 6mg, 9mg, 12mg, or 15mg.
- On! pouches: This Swedish-made brand provides the ultimate solution for on-the-go pouch use, anywhere, thanks to its super-small portions that weigh less than a gram each. Its Original range has nicotine strengths from 1.5mg to 8mg.
- ZYN pouches: This is an obvious choice, as America’s top nicotine pouch brand. Customers in California can buy Original or Smooth products, with 3mg or 6mg of nicotine each.
