Richard Crosby 19 July 2023

 

I had the pleasure of meeting Bengt Wiberg, the founder of ‘Sting Free‘ and an innovator in the snus and nicotine pouch industry, at the Global Forum on Nicotine in Warsaw in June 2023. During our face-to-face conversation, I was able to acquire a few cans of his mint-flavoured ‘Sting Free’ pouches.

richard crosby and Bengt Wiberg at GFN23 (Global Forum on Nicotine)

Meet Bengt, the mastermind behind Stingfree’s nicotine pouches – a revolutionary product that provides a comfortable and enjoyable nicotine pouch experience. Bengt’s journey began when he faced gum pain and received a warning from his dentist about the potential damage caused by snus. As a solution, Bengt came up with a simple yet brilliant idea – placing a band-aid on the side of the snus that contacts the gums. This eliminated the burning sensation while allowing him to enjoy the flavour and nicotine.

Despite facing multiple rejections from industry executives who believed nicotine pouches should always sting, Bengt was determined to bring his invention to the aid of snus and nicotine pouch users who sought a sting-free experience. He teamed up with his son, Daniel, who is the CEO of the company. Together, they launched their Stingfree product in 2023, offering a unique solution for those who want to enjoy nicotine and flavour without the unpleasant sting.

Read more about the story of ‘Sting Free’ here.

In this post, we’ll be looking at the current ‘Sting Free’ product – giving our verdict on the pouches and the new technology.

The ‘Sting Free’ Product Review

The ‘Sting Free’ pouches offer a refreshing mint flavor in a classic ‘Strong Blue’ variety. The can is recyclable and features clear labeling, as well as a waste compartment at the top. These pouches are manufactured in Sweden and contain 6mg of nicotine per pouch.

Upon opening the can, you’ll notice a familiar mint scent. However, what sets these pouches apart is their dual-sided design with a distinctive blue membrane that is exclusive to ‘Sting Free’ pouches.

sting free strong blue mint nicotine pouches

The ‘Sting Free’ pouches offer a refreshing mint flavour in a classic ‘Strong Blue’ variety. The can is recyclable and features clear labelling, as well as a waste compartment at the top. These pouches are manufactured in Sweden and contain 6mg of nicotine per pouch.

When you place the pouch under your gum – the product pretty much does what it says on the tin! It’s not as though using the pouch has no sensation – you get the strong flavour of the mint and uptake of nicotine – but not the same ‘burning’ sensation you can get – especially with dry pouches.

If I’m honest the flavour itself isn’t groundbreaking – and I think due to the sharp nature of a mint taste – it takes away a little from the ‘Sting Free’ experience – but of course, it’s a popular flavour with most. I would love to see a citrus or fruit-flavoured pouch – where I think the technology used for the pouch membrane would be more beneficial.

You can learn more about the ‘Sting Free’ products and where to purchase them here – www.stingfreesnus.com