Nicotine Pouches: What Parents Need to Know

Nicotine pouches have gained popularity among adults, but their presence raises concerns for parents, especially regarding the safety of young children. In fact, a 2025 study by researchers at the Center for Injury Research and Policy and the Central Ohio Poison Center revealed that ingestions of nicotine pouches by young children have surged in recent years. Understanding what nicotine pouches are and how to prevent poisoning in children is crucial for keeping our little ones safe.

What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small, discreet packets containing nicotine and other ingredients. They are often flavored and come in various strengths. They are designed to be placed between the gum and lip, allowing the nicotine to be absorbed into the bloodstream. While intended for use by adults, these pouches can pose a serious risk to young children if swallowed.

Why Are They Harmful to Children?

• Toxicity: Nicotine is a highly toxic substance, especially in concentrated forms like those found in nicotine pouches. Swallowing even a small amount can lead to nicotine poisoning in children.
• Attractive Packaging: Some nicotine pouch products are packaged in colorful and appealing containers that look like candy or snacks, making them more enticing to young children.
• Easy to Access: Nicotine pouches are often small and easy to access, increasing the chance a young child would unintentionally eat one, especially if left within reach of curious children.

Preventing Nicotine Poisoning

The safest choice is to keep all nicotine products out of the home. If you choose to have them in your home, you can lower the risk by following these steps:

• Store nicotine products safely: If these products are kept in the home, store them up, away from food, and out of sight—preferably in a locked cabinet, drawer or box. While storing these products in purses or backpacks is not recommended when you have young children that live in or visit your home, if you are going to keep them in these places, make sure to store the purse/backpack up, away, and out of sight of children. Ask that caregivers around your child do the same in their homes.
• Child-Resistant Packaging: Choose products with child-resistant packaging whenever possible to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.
• Education: Teach children from a young age about the dangers of consuming anything that is not food or medicine (under the guidance of a parent, caregiver, or medical professional). Emphasize that nicotine pouches and other tobacco products are not safe for children.
• Model Healthy Behavior: Set a good example by avoiding using tobacco and nicotine products at all, especially in front of children. Children are more likely to mimic the behavior of their caregivers.
• Be Prepared: Save the national Poison Help Line number (1-800-222-1222) in your phone and post it in a visible place in your home. Call right away if you think your child or teen might have taken nicotine – or any substance – they shouldn’t have. The Poison Help Line provides free, confidential advice from experts, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

While nicotine pouches may seem harmless to adults, they can pose a serious risk of poisoning to young children if swallowed. By taking a few steps now to secure and educate about the dangers of these products, parents can help prevent accidental ingestion and protect the health and safety of their children. Remember, prevention is key in keeping our little ones safe from harm.