Are Nicotine Pouches Haram? And Do They Break Fasting?

In recent years, nicotine pouches have become popular in Gulf countries such as Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE — often called “Sweeka,”, Fox, VELO, “DZRT,” or “modern Snus”.
This has led many Muslims to ask:

Are nicotine pouches haram? And can they be used while fasting?

Islamic Ruling

Nicotine pouches contain no tobacco, only purified nicotine absorbed through the mouth.
While nicotine is addictive, these pouches are much less harmful than smoking.

Scholars’ Opinions:

1. Prohibition: Based on the Qur’anic verse “Do not throw yourselves into destruction” (2:195), anything that clearly harms the body may be haram.

2. Dislike (Makruh): Many scholars classify nicotine pouches as makruh — discouraged but not forbidden — especially when used recreationally.

3. Permissible with conditions: If used as a temporary step to quit smoking, they can be allowed conditionally.

Summary:

• For non-smokers: Makruh (discouraged).

• For smokers trying to quit: Permissible as a harm-reduction tool.

Do Nicotine Pouches Break Fasting?

Yes. During Ramadan, using nicotine pouches invalidates fasting, because nicotine and flavoring substances are absorbed through the mouth into the bloodstream, affecting the body like food or drink.

Medical Effects of Nicotine

1. On the nervous system:
   Nicotine releases dopamine, causing temporary relaxation and alertness but increasing heart rate and blood pressure.

2. During fasting:
   Because it directly affects the body, it breaks the fast.

3. On general health:
   Nicotine increases addiction risk and heart problems but is still far safer than smoking.

Why You May Cough or Produce Phlegm After Quitting Smoking

When switching from cigarettes to nicotine pouches, many notice more phlegm or mucus.
This is actually a sign of healing — your lungs are starting to clean themselves from toxins accumulated through smoking.
As the cilia in your lungs recover, your body expels tar and chemicals via phlegm — a natural cleansing process.

Comparison Table

Individual Responsibility

Just like sugar isn’t haram but harmful for diabetics, nicotine may not be sinful but can be dangerous if abused.
Muslims are urged to know their health limits and consult doctors before regular use.
Moderation and self-control remain essential Islamic values.

Common Gulf Questions

• Does it break wudu? No.

• Does it break the fast? Yes.

• Is VELO halal? Makruh or permissible if used to quit smoking.

• Is White Fox halal? Same rule — permissible for harm reduction.

• Does it cause phlegm? Yes, due to lung recovery and toxin removal.

• Is Snus or Tembak haram? Yes, for containing harmful tobacco.

Final Verdict

• Not haram by default, but makruh for recreational use.

• Permissible if used to quit smoking and reduce harm.

• Breaks fasting if used during the day in Ramadan.

• Phlegm is a natural healing response — your lungs cleaning themselves.