A federal judge in Florida has ruled that two class action lawsuits against tobacco giant Philip Morris and its subsidiary, Swedish Match, may proceed, allowing key allegations to move forward over the marketing and health risks associated with Zyn nicotine pouches.
U.S. District Judge William P. Dimitrouleas issued the ruling in March, partially granting the defendants’ motion to dismiss while preserving the majority of claims brought by consumers. The lawsuits accuse the companies of deceptive marketing practices and failing to adequately warn users—particularly younger consumers—about the potential health risks tied to Zyn’s high nicotine content.
While the court dismissed one count of fraudulent concealment due to insufficient detail, the claim was thrown out without prejudice, giving plaintiffs the opportunity to amend and refile. Claims for design defect, failure to warn, and negligence were allowed to proceed.
In the decision, Judge Dimitrouleas also rejected the defendants’ motion to dismiss the suits on jurisdictional grounds, stating that the companies’ marketing and sales of Zyn in Florida provided enough connection for the federal court to hear the case.
The lawsuits allege that Philip Morris and Swedish Match promote Zyn as a safe, smokeless alternative to traditional tobacco or vaping products, despite its nicotine levels exceeding those in FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapies.
In response to the ruling, a spokesperson for Philip Morris said the company is reviewing the court’s decision and plans to “vigorously defend” itself against the remaining claims.





