A new craze is brewing among American teenagers, and it’s not your typical cup of joe. Known as "coffee snus" or "pauchi," these nicotine-free pouches are gaining traction with Gen Z, offering a quick caffeine hit without the need for a coffee mug.
Essentially a twist on traditional snus — a smokeless tobacco product popular in Sweden — coffee snus replaces tobacco with a concentrated dose of caffeine. Placed under the lip, the substance is absorbed through the mucous membrane, delivering a rapid burst of energy that’s turning heads and raising eyebrows.
The appeal is clear: convenience and a potent jolt on the go. Social media platforms are buzzing with teens showcasing their "pauchi" stashes, turning the trend into a viral sensation. Brands market these pouches as a modern alternative to energy drinks or coffee shots, capitalizing on the growing demand for portable pick-me-ups. However, the rapid absorption into the bloodstream—similar to how nicotine works in traditional snus—means the effects hit hard and fast, mimicking the high of a double espresso in seconds.
But health experts are sounding the alarm. Even without tobacco, coffee snus isn’t a free pass to safety. Doctors warn that the high caffeine concentration can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure spikes, and even addiction. Long-term effects remain understudied, but parallels with nicotine-based snus suggest risks like dependency and oral irritation could emerge. The American Academy of Pediatrics has called for closer scrutiny, urging parents to monitor this emerging trend among vulnerable teens.
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For now, while adults might stick to sipping their morning brew, Gen Z is embracing this bold new way to caffeinate. As the trend grows, the question remains: will coffee snus become a harmless fad or a health concern waiting to unfold?
