Is Nicotine Haram? The Islamic Perspective on ZYN & Other Nicotine Pouches

Ramadan is a time of reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. For many Muslims, it’s also a time when questions about what is permissible and what breaks a fast become even more important. 

If you use nicotine pouches or are considering them, you might be wondering: Are they haram? Do they break a fast?  These are common concerns, and you're not alone in asking them!

The debate over nicotine’s permissibility in Islam isn’t new, but with the rise of tobacco leaf-free options like ZYN, the conversation has expanded. While tobacco products like cigarettes and even snus are widely considered haram (forbidden) due to their harmful effects, the ruling on nicotine itself is still debated among scholars. Some see nicotine pouches as an appealing alternative to traditional products, while others worry about their addictive potential. So, where do they stand in Islamic teachings?

Nicotine, a naturally occurring stimulant found in tobacco plants, is also known for its addictive properties. Unlike alcohol, it doesn't intoxicate, but its stimulating effects can lead to dependency—raising concerns about its impact on health and self-control.

Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of avoiding harm, as the Quran states: "And do not let your own hands throw you into destruction" (Quran 2:195).

Due to the well-documented health risks of smoking, many scholars classify traditional tobacco products as haram. However, the status of nicotine itself—especially in tobacco-free forms—remains in question. It is generally considered makruh (discouraged but not forbidden) due to its stimulating effects.

Nicotine pouches like ZYN are often compared to cigarettes and vaping, which many scholars already consider haram, due to their addictive potential. But since nicotine pouch users are exposed to lower levels of toxicants than if they were to smoke, are they still equally frowned upon in the eyes of Islamic law?

• Nicotine is addictive: This contradicts the Islamic principle of self-restraint. Islamic teachings emphasize avoiding substances that lead to addiction or dependency, as they can harm one's health and general wellbeing.

• Potential harm: Some scholars classify all harmful substances as haram, and nicotine has been linked to cardiovascular issues and increased blood pressure.

• Recreational use: If nicotine is used recreationally rather than as a smoking cessation aid, it may fall under the category of harmful and unnecessary consumption.

• No intoxicating effects: Unlike alcohol or drugs, ZYN does not impair judgment or alter your consciousness.

• Harm reduction: Some scholars argue that if nicotine pouches serve as an alternative to cigarettes, they could be considered a “lesser evil” or even beneficial.

• Smoke-free: The primary danger of cigarettes comes from the toxic chemicals released through combustion, not necessarily from nicotine itself. Since nicotine pouches do not involve smoking, some argue they should be viewed differently. However, nicotine remains an addictive substance, which is why there is no clear religious ruling for or against its use.

• Comparison to caffeine: Some argue that nicotine is similar to a few cups of coffee in terms of its stimulating effects. While caffeine is widely permitted in Islamic jurisprudence, nicotine’s addictive nature and associated health risks make it more controversial.

Ramadan is a time of spiritual discipline, marked by complete abstinence from food, drink, and other sources of energy or stimulation from dawn to dusk for a month.

So, does using nicotine pouches during the day constitute breaking a fast?

Most scholars agree that it does, because:

• Nicotine is absorbed through the gums and enters the bloodstream.

• It has stimulating effects, similar to food or drink.

• Fasting requires avoiding all substances that nourish or, in this case, energize the body.

So, is nicotine haram? The truth is, there’s no definitive answer—it depends on your interpretation. According to current Sharia rulings, nicotine pouches are not classified as haram. This is in direct contrast with the ruling on snus, which is considered forbidden. This distinction is important and has contributed to the growing popularity of nicotine pouches in Muslim communities as a tobacco leaf-free alternative.

Many scholars do not classify nicotine itself as haram, but concerns about addiction and long-term dependency keep the discussion open. As a result, nicotine pouches are generally considered makruh (discouraged but not forbidden).

If you’re trying to transition away from a more harmful habit—like smoking—by using nicotine pouches, some scholars argue that their use may be permissible. However, if you’re using products like ZYN purely for recreation, some caution that they lean more towards being discouraged.

When it comes to Ramadan, nicotine pouches do break a fast. Since nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream and has stimulant effects, most scholars agree it invalidates fasting—just like eating, drinking, or consuming any substance that provides energy or stimulation.

At the end of the day, the best course of action is to seek guidance from religious authorities, reflect on your own health- and faith-based priorities, and make a decision that aligns with your values.