A new study has uncovered a sharp and alarming rise in nicotine pouch ingestions among children under 6 years old. According to data published in Pediatrics, incidents increased by 763% between 2020 and 2023, highlighting an urgent health concern for families and healthcare providers.
Nicotine pouches, small white packets designed to sit between the lip and gum, are often flavored and marketed as smokeless alternatives to cigarettes or vapes. But their colorful packaging and candy-like appearance make them especially dangerous in households with young children.
Health Risks Are Serious
When swallowed, nicotine pouches can cause a range of symptoms including nausea, dizziness, increased heart rate, and confusion. While many cases reported to poison control centers resulted in minor illness, some children required hospitalization—and there were two reported deaths during the study period (though these involved liquid nicotine, not pouches).
The study analyzed over 135,000 nicotine-related poison center calls between 2010 and 2023. Most incidents happened at home, involved children under age 2, and were linked to improperly stored nicotine products.
Researchers found that ingestions involving pouches were more likely to result in serious health outcomes and hospitalization than other forms of nicotine, underscoring the unique danger they pose.
Packaging and Marketing Under Scrutiny
Experts point to marketing tactics and product design as key contributors to the surge. Bright packaging and fruit or candy flavors may unintentionally attract children. Similar issues have been flagged in the past with vape liquids, prompting federal legislation requiring child-resistant packaging.
Interestingly, the ingestion rate for liquid nicotine spiked by 450% between 2010 and 2015, but then dropped 45% after new packaging laws were introduced. This suggests that safety regulations can work—and that further action on nicotine pouch packaging may help prevent similar surges.
Prevention Starts at Home
To reduce the risk of accidental ingestion:
- Always store nicotine products out of reach and out of sight
- Avoid using them around young children
- Opt for products without colorful packaging or sweet flavors
- Support efforts to regulate nicotine product marketing and packaging
Parents and caregivers are also urged to act quickly if an incident occurs. The National Poison Help Line is available at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.
The Bottom Line
The rapid rise in nicotine pouch ingestions is a clear sign that more education, regulation, and caution are needed. These products may be marketed to adults, but their impact on children can be severe. Safe storage, smart regulation, and increased awareness can help prevent future harm.
Help for Nicotine Addiction
Nicotine isn’t just harmful to children—it can also take a powerful hold on teens and adults. If you or someone you care about is struggling to quit nicotine, Avenues Recovery is here to help. We provide personalized, evidence-based care for nicotine dependence and co-occurring substance use.
Our compassionate team offers support at every stage—from detox to long-term recovery planning. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Visit avenuesrecovery.com to learn more or speak with someone today. Recovery is real—and it starts with one step.