Simple in design, “nic picks” appeal to consumers’ craving for a discreet tobacco alternative.
Generally speaking, toothpicks are one of those classic utility items that people don’t expect will ever change. But there have been changes.
Introduced to the U.S. market around 2013, nicotine toothpicks serve a different function than simply dislodging food bits stuck between teeth. Oftentimes touted as a smoking cessation option, “nic picks” certainly can substitute for an oral fixation or habit instead of cigarettes or chewing tobacco. For convenience store businesses, though, nicotine toothpicks — which fall within the modern oral nicotine category — offer a chance to extend tobacco product sales.
Nicotine toothpicks are pretty self-explanatory: traditional toothpicks infused or coated with tobacco-free nicotine and food-grade flavorings. Users suck on the stick to release the nicotine within a few minutes. For a more intense experience, users can chew or nibble on it. Most brands sell toothpicks with three milligrams of nicotine as well as in a variety of flavors, including wintergreen, peppermint and cinnamon.
Anne Baye Ericksen – CStore Decisions – 2021-03-29.