Before we launched JAS, we wanted to know one thing: is our pouch actually better, or do we just think it is because it's ours? So we put it to a blind test.
How the test worked
Between March and July 2026, we gave adult testers unmarked samples of JAS alongside two of the leading nicotine pouch brands sold in South Africa. Each pouch was labelled only with a code, so nobody knew which brand they were trying. Testers sampled a lower strength, a higher strength or both, then told us which pouch they preferred at each strength and why.
In the interest of full transparency: two of the testers are connected to the JAS team. They received the same coded samples and tested blind like everyone else.
The results
Lower strength:
- JAS: 70%
- Leading brand B: 20%
- Leading brand C: 10%
Higher strength:
- JAS: 56%
- Leading brand C: 38%
- Leading brand B: 6%
JAS came out on top at both strengths, without anyone knowing which pouch was ours.
Why people chose JAS
We asked testers to explain their pick, and three themes kept coming up.
A gentler feel. The most common comment was that JAS didn't burn. One tester summed it up simply: it "does not burn your gums."
Flavour. Testers described the JAS flavour as the best of the three, and one noted it stood out without turning into a mouthful of flavoured saliva.
A smooth, steady release. Several testers mentioned a smoother experience and a slow, consistent release rather than a harsh hit up front.
What we're still working on
Not every comment was glowing, and we'd rather tell you than hide it. Brand C ran us close at the higher strength, with testers liking its smooth, slow release. A few experienced users felt all the higher-strength pouches were milder than they wanted. We heard that loud and clear, and it's why we're developing a stronger tier.
A note on the numbers
This was a small taste test, not a scientific study. It's a real signal, but it's not the final word, and taste is personal. The best test is your own, so try a can and make up your mind.
Try it for yourself
JAS comes in Mint and Blueberry, both in Easy - 5mg and Classic - 10mg, at R60 a can. New to pouches? Start with What Are Nicotine Pouches? Delivery is free on orders over R500.
JAS products are for adults 18+ only. This product contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. Keep out of reach of children.