In response to an ongoing investigation into potential illegal sales of its Zyn nicotine pouches in Washington, DC, tobacco company Philip Morris International has announced the suspension of online sales on Zyn.com. The investigation centers around Swedish Match North America, an affiliate of Philip Morris and the owner of the Zyn brand, which has been issued a subpoena by the district's Attorney General.

The scrutiny from Washington, DC's Attorney General stems from concerns over Zyn sales and their compliance with the ban on flavored tobacco and flavored synthetic nicotine, which is set to be implemented in 2022. Zyn pouches are small pouches filled with nicotine powder that are placed between the user's gums and upper lip. Notably, these products do not contain tobacco.

According to a statement from Philip Morris, a preliminary investigation revealed that flavored nicotine pouches may have been illegally sold in Washington, DC, primarily through online sales and independent sellers. As a result, Zyn.com will halt sales temporarily while the company conducts a review of its sales and supply chain arrangements.

However, the suspension of online sales does not mean Zyn products will be completely discontinued. The statement from Philip Morris emphasized that sales on the Zyn website have only constituted a small percentage of the overall nationwide sales volume since Phillip Morris acquired the company.

The controversy surrounding Zyn products has been ongoing for several months. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for regulatory investigations into the nicotine pouches earlier this year, citing concerns over their appeal to teenagers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also expressed its monitoring of underage nicotine product use. According to the FDA, approximately 1.5 percent of high school and middle school students reported using nicotine last year, while e-cigarette use was reported by 10 percent of students.

As the investigation into the potential illegal sales of Zyn products continues, Philip Morris International's affiliate has taken the proactive step of suspending online sales on Zyn.com. This move serves as an initial remedial measure while the company evaluates its sales and supply chain practices.