Sept. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday that it recommends nicotine pouch manufacturers use child-resistant packaging to protect children from harmful exposure.
From April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2025, the number of reported nicotine pouch exposure cases reported to U.S. Poison Centers steadily increased. About 72% of nicotine pouch exposure cases were in children under 5, an FDA press release said.
"I am concerned about rising reports of nicotine exposures in young children caused by nicotine pouches," said FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary in a statement. "The fruity flavors and bright, colorful designs of nicotine pouch products could resemble candy and seem attractive to children. Manufacturers should consider what steps they can take to prevent accidental exposures and ingestion."
Nicotine is a highly toxic chemical, and a small dose in children easily could exceed a fatal dose, a 2013 study suggested.
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