Do You Have to Be 18 to Buy Nicotine Pouches in the UK?

July 04, 2025
Posted by marlon richards

In recent years, nicotine pouches have exploded in popularity across the UK. Their sleek, smoke-free format appeals to a wide range of users—from former smokers to nicotine newbies. But with rising interest comes a crucial legal question: Do you have to be 18 to buy nicotine pouches in the UK?

Let’s break it down clearly, with no fluff—just the facts you need to stay informed and compliant.

So, Do You Have to Be 18 to Buy Nicotine Pouches in the UK?

Short answer? Yes.

Long answer? Still yes—with some added context.

According to UK law, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase any nicotine-containing product, whether it’s a cigarette, vape, or pouch. This includes all oral nicotine pouches, regardless of nicotine strength or flavour profile.

The same applies for:

Buying online or in-store
Receiving delivery from a courier
Picking up from a click-and-collect location

Retailers are required by law to verify age. Many online shops use age verification services, and physical stores are urged to use Challenge 25 protocols.

You can read a detailed breakdown in this blog post from Buy Nicotine Pouches UK.

Why Is the Age Limit 18?

The UK government places nicotine pouches under the same legal framework as vaping products. Why? Because nicotine is a psychoactive substance. It can:

Affect brain development in teens
Increase the risk of addiction
Raise heart rate and blood pressure

Even though nicotine pouches don't contain tobacco or produce smoke, they still deliver nicotine—and that comes with responsibilities.

These safeguards are part of a broader movement to regulate new nicotine alternatives more strictly, a topic explored further in Evapo’s blog on UK regulations.