The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will fast-track reviews of nicotine pouch products from four major tobacco companies under a new pilot program starting Monday, according to Reuters. The move comes as the Trump administration pushes the agency to accelerate regulatory approvals in the tobacco sector.
Under the program, the FDA will prioritize applications from manufacturers seeking authorization for nicotine pouches, an increasingly popular smokeless alternative to cigarettes. The initiative aims to streamline scientific review while maintaining federal standards on product safety and public health impact.
Nicotine pouches, which do not contain tobacco leaf but deliver nicotine through oral absorption, have grown rapidly in popularity in U.S. and European markets. Companies argue they offer a reduced-harm option for adult smokers, though public health advocates remain concerned about their long-term effects and appeal among younger consumers.
The FDA’s pilot will determine whether the faster review model can help reduce application backlogs while ensuring that only products meeting health and regulatory standards reach consumers. Industry stakeholders are closely watching the program, as it could set the precedent for how new tobacco and nicotine products are authorized in the future.
