A new caffeine craze is brewing on social media – no kettle required. Caffeine pouches promise a fast, discreet hit of energy without the faff of brewing coffee or cracking open an energy drink.

But while they may look like a harmless pick-me-up, experts warn they carry real risks, especially for teenagers and people with underlying health conditions.

Caffeine pouches look and work a lot like nicotine pouches or snus . Each small, pillow-shaped packet contains micro-ground caffeine, flavourings and sometimes herbs or vitamins .

Slip one under your lip and the caffeine goes straight into the bloodstream through your gums – bypassing the digestive system. The result? A jolt of energy that lands far quicker than a cup of coffee or tea.

Caffeine perks us up by blocking adenosin

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