Found in My Daughter’s Backpack — What Are These?

While cleaning out my 12-year-old daughter’s backpack, I came across a small Ziploc bag with several little white pouches inside. They look like tiny cotton packets and have a faint minty smell. At first, I thought they might be moisture absorbers or something for freshness — but after a bit of searching and asking around, it turns out that’s not what they are.

These are nicotine pouches, also known by brands like Zyn, Velo, or Shockwave. They’re smokeless tobacco alternatives that are placed between the gum and lip to deliver nicotine — no smoke, no vapor, just absorption. They look harmless, but they’re definitely not meant for kids, and they contain addictive substances just like cigarettes or vapes.

What’s concerning is how easily these are mistaken for something innocent — they have no strong smell, no labeling once removed from the packaging, and they’re small enough to hide anywhere. Kids can get them from older friends or online, and schools are starting to see this trend rise fast.

If you find something similar, talk with your child calmly — not from anger, but from concern. These products are addictive and marketed in candy-like flavors (mint, fruit, citrus) that appeal to younger users.

🚫 Parents, keep an eye out:

• They come in small round tins labeled Zyn, Velo, or Rogue.

• They smell slightly minty or fruity.

• They’re easy to mistake for gum or mints.

It’s a reminder that nicotine products have evolved — and they don’t always look like cigarettes anymore.