Tucker Carlson To Launch ALP Nicotine Pouches

In a surprising turn of events, Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host known for his provocative commentary, has shifted his allegiance from his previously favorite nicotine pouch brand, ZYN, to launching his own brand called ALP. 

Carlson's decision to move away from ZYN follows his discontent with the alleged political donations made by employees of Philip Morris International (PMI), ZYN's parent company. Recently, he accused ZYN of contributing to the campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris and dismissed it as a “ladies brand” that is “not a brand for men.” While Philip Morris itself claims not to make political contributions to presidential candidates, the subsidiary managing ZYN operates a political action committee that has donated to both Republican and Democratic campaigns, with around 70% of its contributions going to Republican candidates.

Carlson’s current stance sharply contradicts his previous support for ZYN, where he made several unfounded claims about the products just last October on a podcast. In response to a potential partnership offered by Carlson’s team, PMI declined, citing concerns related to his comments. They stated, “Given Mr. Carlson’s popularity and reach, these statements could promote a misunderstanding and misuse of our products.”

Upset with the apparent direction of ZYN, Carlson decided to create a nicotine pouch brand that he believes aligns better with his values and vision for nicotine use. Scheduled to launch in November 2024, ALP promises to offer a product free from what Carlson described to the WSJ as “humorless, left-wing drones.”

The new brand will offer a variety of flavors and nicotine strengths designed to appeal to a broad audience, with options including Tropical Fruit, Sweet Nectar, Mountain Wintergreen, Chilled Mint, and Refreshing Chill. In total, ALP will provide customers with three nicotine strengths: 3mg, 6mg, and a robust 9mg — notably 33% stronger than ZYN's strongest option. Additionally, ALP pouches will be moist, which contrasts sharply with ZYN's dry pouches. Moist nicotine pouches deliver a quicker release of nicotine and flavor, catering to consumers seeking a more immediate impact, while dry pouches offer a slower, more gradual release. This choice positions ALP to cater to consumers seeking a more immediate impact.

As Tucker Carlson prepares to launch ALP in the coming months, the nicotine pouch market is set for an interesting shakeup. This new venture not only marks a personal reversal for Carlson but also positions him directly against a brand he once endorsed. Adding to the ongoing developments, a subsidiary of Turning Point Brands has filed a trademark for the ALP brand name and logo, which features a winking man in a cowboy hat.

With its promise of stronger options and unique flavors, along with the influence of the polarizing pundit behind the brand, consumers may be intrigued to explore what ALP has to offer. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on Carlson and his brand's ability to carve out a place in the competitive landscape of nicotine pouches.