Caffeine pouches, resembling soft, cushiony shapes with flavors like chocolate and blueberry, are gaining popularity on social media, particularly among young individuals. These pouches, designed to provide a quick energy boost, are being showcased in TikTok videos, with some users highlighting their accessibility even to underage consumers and their potential use for staying awake in class.
Health professionals are observing a rising trend of caffeine pouch consumption among the youth on social platforms, emphasizing the need for caution. These pouches, similar in appearance to nicotine pouches, contain various amounts of caffeine, typically ranging from 50 to over 200 milligrams per pouch. Placed between the lips and gums, the caffeine is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream due to the high vascularity of the gums.
Dr. Nicholas Chadi, a pediatrician at Montreal’s Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre, warns about the risks associated with caffeine pouches, especially when used excessively by teenagers and young adults influenced by social media trends. The immediate effects may include a heightened heart rate and increased alertness, which could lead to adverse health outcomes if consumed in large quantities.
With concerns about potential addiction, dependence, and masking of underlying health issues, experts advise limiting daily caffeine intake to 100-200 milligrams. The cumulative effects of caffeine in various products, including chocolate and medications, could pose health risks when combined with caffeine pouches.
While companies selling caffeine pouches online claim to target adult consumers, there are reports of minors accessing these products. Health Canada has not authorized any caffeine pouches for sale in the country, prompting calls for stricter regulations and mandatory health warnings on these products to safeguard the well-being of young individuals.
