Caffeine Mouth Pouches? - What Parents and Caregivers Should Know.
- The White Hatter
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Last year we wrote about the concerns surrounding the increasing popularity of nicotine mouth pouches that teens were turning to, and some of the health concerns associated. (1) We have been reading and watching some postings about teens in the US now talking about caffeine mouth pouches as a better option to nicotine pouches. What starts to trend on social media in the US, will start to flow up here into Canada as well.
As the demand for alternatives to nicotine vaping and nicotine mouth pouches grows, flavoured caffeine mouth pouches (double shot espresso, cinnamon roll, caramel, vanilla, spearmint), similar in appearance to nicotine pouches, are gaining popularity, particularly among teens, young adults, and athletes as performance supplements and an alternative to expensive energy drinks. Some of the brands available for purchase in Canada include “Gr1nds” (2) ,“Dryv” (3) , and Nze (4) These small pouches are designed to be placed between the gum and cheek, allowing caffeine to absorb directly through the mouth’s lining. But what does the research say about their safety and effectiveness?
Caffeine mouth pouches are still relatively new, and research into their long-term health effects is limited but growing. A current clinical trial by the University of Southern Mississippi is exploring how caffeine and nicotine pouches affect performance, cognition, appetite, and cardiovascular health. In this study, participants use pouches containing various combinations of caffeine (100 mg), or placebo. Researchers aim to evaluate whether these products improve anaerobic exercise performance or alter cognitive functioning and heart rate. (5)
One reason caffeine pouches are gaining attention is their rapid onset. Because caffeine is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth (a method known as buccal absorption), users may feel effects more quickly than they would from coffee or energy drinks. However, the speed and consistency of absorption can vary depending on how long the pouch stays in the mouth and individual differences such as saliva production.
Despite potential performance benefits, early laboratory research raises red flags about oral health. Studies on products like caffeine pouches have found that their contents can be cytotoxic, that is, damaging to the cells in the mouth, especially the connective tissues that support the teeth. The concern is that repeated exposure over time might harm oral tissues, slow healing, or contribute to ulcers and inflammation, especially if the pouches are used frequently or left in the mouth for extended periods. (6)
Although there has been some great research on caffeine (7) there still needs to be more human-based studies before any strong conclusions can be drawn about this specific caffeine product.
While caffeine mouth pouches offer a novel and fast-acting way to consume caffeine, the research is still in early stages. Initial findings suggest possible performance benefits, but also point to potential risks, especially for oral health. For now, moderation is key. Consumers, especially teens and young adults, should be cautious, and parents should be aware that these products, while legal and marketed as safe, are not without potential downsides.
As always, when it comes to new health products, it’s best to stay informed and consider both the short, and long-term effects.
Parents and caregivers, if you come across small pouches like the ones shown in the attached image, it likely indicates that someone in the household is using either a nicotine or caffeine mouth pouch, or maybe even both.
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech
1/ https://www.thewhitehatter.ca/post/the-hidden-dangers-of-nicotine-pouches-what-parents-need-to-know
