2Firsts Interview | Bengt Wiberg: Why the Oral Health Risks of Nicotine Pouches Merit Further Study
January 15, 2026 by 2firsts.com
2Firsts Interview | Bengt Wiberg: Why the Oral Health Risks of Nicotine Pouches Merit Further Study
In 2025, nicotine pouches have become one of the most closely watched categories in the global novel tobacco market, seeing rapid growth across manufacturing, branding, distribution, and retail. Just before Christmas, the U.S. FDA granted marketing authorization to six products under Altria’s on! PLUS brand, highlighting their recognition as tobacco harm reduction tools. Despite this, experts note that nicotine pouches are still relatively new and require longer-term, more detailed studies on safety. Concerns about oral health have grown, particularly regarding gum irritation, oral lesions, and potential long-term changes to oral tissues. As the market expands, ongoing research will be key to understanding both the benefits and risks of these products.
