Officials: Nicotine pouches are concerning; Attorneys General demand warning label on social media apps
Nicotine pouches are small and dissolve when placed between the lip and gum.
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As health officials warn about a nicotine product that has continued to remain popular with young people, Attorneys General from the tri-state area are warning about the impact social media apps may have on them.
Nicotine pouches are small and dissolve when placed between the lip and gum.
Officials say the use of these pouches has been increasing since 2016 and are concerned as they become more appealing to young people.
"Our guard is up. We're going to continue to monitor use and also do everything we can to make sure that we do not see any further rises with regard to these products in future years," says Brian King, director of the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Tobacco Products.
King describes the relationship between teenagers and nicotine as a terrible combination and not only because it is a highly addictive substance.
"It can also harm the developing adolescent brain and also prime the brain for addiction to other drugs. And so, it's critically important that youth aren't exposed to these products," says King.
While King and other officials focus on the physical health of adolescents, politicians are focusing on their mental wellbeing.
Attorneys General from 42 states, including from the tri-state, have signed a letter to congress demanding the surgeon general add a warning label to social media apps.
The group says the algorithm-driven social media platforms have contributed to the mental health crisis and are dangerous.
A warning label would require congressional approval.
