Philip Morris plays defense against Tucker Carlson

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM) is suddenly a target of Tucker Carlson, who made derogatory remarks about the Zyn brand as he prepares to enter the tobacco industry himself with a competing nicotine-pouch brand called Alp.

Zyn, which is run by Philip Morris’ (PM) Swedish Match North America, was once a favorite of Carlson, but the media personality now claims that it is a brand for women and liberals. Carlson also pointed to political contributions made by employees of Zyn to presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Notably, Philip Morris International (PM) did not make any direct political contributions to a presidential campaign. Meanwhile, subsidiary Swedish Match North America gave 70% of its contributions to federal candidates to Republicans and 30% to Democrats.

Last year, Carlson’s team reportedly reached out to Philip Morris International (PM) to form a partnership, but the tobacco company declined the offer.

Alp’s website indicates that it will launch its nicotine pouch product in November. The company aims to offer pouches in three nicotine strengths (3 milligrams, 6 milligrams, and 9 milligrams) when it comes to the market, which would provide it a broader range compared to Zyn. Nicotine pouches like Alp are part of a growing trend in smoke-free nicotine delivery systems, which have gained popularity as alternatives to traditional smoking and vaping. The pouches are designed to be used discreetly, offering users a way to consume nicotine without the smoke or vapor associated with other methods.

Other nicotine pouch brands include Altria’s (MO) On!, British American Tobacco’s (BTI) VELO, and Rogue, which is a joint venture between Swisher and PLD Acquisitions.