Are Zyns Haram? Exploring the Islamic Perspective on Nicotine Pouches

Introduction

Zyns, a popular brand of nicotine pouches, have sparked controversy within the Muslim community, raising questions about their permissibility under Islamic law. This article aims to shed light on this topic, examining the religious and cultural perspectives on zyns and providing guidance for observant Muslims.

Islamic Perspectives on Nicotine Use

Story 1: Understanding the Prohibition on Intoxicants

According to Islamic teachings, the consumption of intoxicants, substances that impair one's mental or physical faculties, is strictly forbidden. This prohibition is based on the Quran (5:90-91) and the authentic hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Benefit: Observing this prohibition promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

How to Do: Avoid all substances that intoxicate, including alcohol, drugs, and certain forms of nicotine.

Verse/Hadith	Translation
Quran (5:90)	"O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone altars [to other than Allah ], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful."
Bukhari	"The Prophet (ﷺ) cursed wine, its drinker, its pourer, its seller, its buyer, its carrier, the one for whom it is carried, and the one who consumes its price."

The Case of Zyns

Story 2: Examining the Ingredients and Effects

Zyns contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can negatively impact human health. While nicotine itself is not explicitly prohibited in Islam, its harmful effects on the body raise concerns about its permissibility.

Benefit: Understanding the potential risks of nicotine empowers Muslims to make informed choices.

How to Do: Consult reliable sources to learn about the scientific research on nicotine's health effects.

Ingredient	Effects
Nicotine	Addictive, can increase heart rate and blood pressure
Propylene Glycol	Irritant, can cause respiratory problems
Cellulose	Bulking agent, no known adverse effects
Glycerol	Sweetener, can cause tooth decay
Aroma	Flavorings, can vary in safety

Community Perspectives and Guidance

Story 3: Navigating Cultural and Societal Influences

The permissibility of zyns can also be influenced by cultural and societal factors. In some Muslim-majority countries, tobacco use is prevalent and may not be seen as problematic. However, in other contexts, it may be viewed as a violation of social norms or religious teachings.

Benefit: Being aware of these cultural nuances helps Muslims make decisions that align with their faith and values.

How to Do: Engage in dialogue with trusted religious scholars and community leaders to seek guidance and understanding.

Country	Prevalence of Tobacco Use
Turkey	42%
Indonesia	29%
Saudi Arabia	23%
Pakistan	15%
United Kingdom	15%

Are Zyns Haram? Exploring the Islamic Perspective on Nicotine Pouches