Many factors affect the nicotine pouch experience, the more obvious being flavor profile, nicotine content, and nicopod size. But what about the moisture content of the product? Here, we explore the water content's grasp on the experience and how it can alter the sensation. Explore the brands known for dry and moist portions, discover how the dreaded nicotine pouch drip can be avoided, and finish by finding which moisture content suits your preferences below.
Absorbing Nicotine From The Nicopod: The Delivery Method
Nicotine is a soluble substance. It leaves the nicotine pouch when it dissolves, meaning the product has to be moist to extract the flavor and nicotine. Once the portion is wet, the nicotine and flavor are absorbed through the oral mucosa via the mucous membrane, allowing the substances access to the bloodstream. Here, the nicotine interacts with the receptors responsible for the feelings felt, like the so-called “rush”, the pleasant feeling, and the adrenaline spike. But how does pouch moisture affect this process?
Understanding the Effect of Nicotine Pouch Moisture on the Experience
When the nicotine pouch is placed against the gum, saliva from your salivary gland is produced and the product is moistened. When damp the nicotine and flavor begin to leave the sachet and cross into your bodily system.
The moisture content depicts how quickly the nicotine and flavor are released and, in turn, dictates the longevity of the experience too.
The Difference Between Dry and Moist Pouches
The obvious difference is that some are dry to the touch and others are moist, but how does this affect the experience? Not only can different water contents make an experience feel stronger but it can also affect the length of the release.
- Dry Portions will last much longer and the nicotine and flavor release will be more gradual and even.
- Wet Portions are much more intense as the contents are released almost immediately, but this means the sensation is much shorter-lived and loses flavor faster.
Which Brands are Dry and Moist?
Many brands stick to one type of pouch, dry or moist. Some are very popular in the US market, both dry and moist, showing the diverse preferences of the US consumer. The better-known brands for each type of nicopod are as follows.
Interestingly, one of the two most popular brands in the US, ZYN, is dry and Rogue is moist, highlighting that moisture may not be the most critical factor when deciding on the product to add to your rotation. However, it helps to educate yourself about these characteristics as it allows for a better-tailored nicotine pouch experience.
How Does Pouch Moisture Affect Drip?
Nicotine pouch drip is the excess juices produced from the nicotine pouch. The reason for this effect is because of the excess saliva produced when using a nicopod. However, it is important to note that it is safe to swallow the drip if any is produced.
In the case of moisture, having a wet pouch may increase the drip produced. However, the extra drip will be minute and may not be noticeable. If drip is something you want to steer clear of, then dry pouches may be more suitable.
Another Tip to Avoid Reduce Drip
Nicotine pouches are used in the upper lip and placed towards the front of the mouth. There is a reason for this. Our salivary glands are located at the back of the lower jaw. Placing the nicopod there will lead to more salivation and more drip.
Does Moisture Levels Alter Shelf Life?
Moisture levels can affect how long your nicotine pouches stay fresh, highlighting the importance of knowing the moisture levels of the nicotine pouch in use. The dryer the product, the fresher it should stay for longer. If moist portions are in your rotation, try keeping them in the fridge or freezer to ensure the flavor and nicotine release are as enjoyable as when it was first produced.
Navigating Moisture Preferences - Which to Choose?
With all that said, which is more enjoyable and which is best? There isn’t a definitive answer to the question as it depends on the individual’s preference as users prefer different things. Below is a basic guideline for the experience each provides, giving the information needed to see which best suits you.
Dry Pouches provide a long-lasting experience, from 30-60 minutes, and release the flavor and nicotine steadily, providing a more mellow and balanced experience.
Moist Pouches have a more intense release, with nicotine and flavor releasing immediately, making the experience more potent but shorter in time.
