Out of Reach, Out of Risk: How to Use Nicotine Pouches at Home Responsibly 

A recent report highlighted growing concerns around accidental nicotine pouch exposure among children— a reminder that products intended for adults must be handled with extra care, especially at home.

As a responsible retailer of smoke-free and tobacco leaf-free nicotine alternatives, Nicokick encourages adults to use these products responsibly. This includes storing them safely, keeping them out of sight, and being aware of how everyday habits can influence behavior.  

Citing a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, a recent article drew attention to a 760% rise in accidental pouch exposures among young children. But zooming out reveals a more nuanced picture. Here’s what the data actually shows: 

• Out of 39 reported major-effect cases, only one involved a nicotine pouch. 
  
  
• Nicotine ingestion cases among children have decreased by over 34% between 2015 and 2023—a clear reversal from a prior spike in incidents. 
  
  
• Traditional cigarettes (the butts specifically) still account for most nicotine-related poisonings, especially among young children. 
  
  
• Liquid nicotine products (like vape refills) continue to be among the most toxic and dangerous when ingested—even tiny amounts can lead to severe symptoms. 
  
  
• The FDA recently authorized 20 flavored nicotine pouches, confirming they meet strict standards under its public health framework. This reflects growing recognition that alternative nicotine products can be evaluated responsibly on a case-by-case basis. 

So while pouch safety is absolutely worth talking about, it’s important we ground the conversation in facts—not fear. 

At Nicokick, we’re focused on offering adults access to smoke-free, tobacco leaf-free nicotine alternatives. We believe that when adults use these products responsibly—we move toward a smoke-free world. 

Nicotine products—whether cigarettes, vapes, or pouches—have no place in a child’s hands. As adults, it’s our responsibility to use these products with care and intention, making sure they’re always stored securely, disposed of properly, and kept well out of reach. Responsible use doesn’t end with us—it extends to how we protect those around us.

Dr. Marina Murphy, Senior Director of Science Affairs

We know parents and caregivers would never intentionally put a child in harm’s way. But when adult-only products—like alcohol, medication, traditional tobacco, or nicotine pouches—are left where kids can access them, accidents can happen in seconds. And the consequences can be serious.

Even when products are out of reach, the way they exist in the home can still shape how they’re viewed. Safe storage isn't just about preventing accidental access; it also helps reinforce clear boundaries around who these products are for. 

If you are an adult nicotine pouch user and have kids at home (or visiting), here are a few simple steps that make a big difference:

• Store cans safely: Keep your pouches locked up, stored high, or tucked away in a place kids can’t access. Out of sight means out of reach—and out of harm’s way
• Dispose with care: Used doesn’t mean harmless. Dispose of pouches by placing them into a childproof container, or in a sealed trash bin to keep curious hands away.
• Do a household sweep: While you're at it, take a moment to scan for other common dangers—bleach, medications, lighters, or alcohol—and store those responsibly, too.
• Model mindful behavior: Using nicotine products around children—even ones without smoke—can send the wrong message. This responsibility includes reenforcing the use of nicotine as an adults-only activity, to help kids grow up understanding the boundaries. 
  
  

We’re here to support adults making informed choices—but we’re also here to encourage responsible habits that protect the people you care about most.