Using a nicotine pouch is incredibly simple, but after finishing, there are a few complications. Are they safe to just toss into the trash, or is there a particular disposal method to follow?
We’ll answer all these questions below to clarify how to dispose of nicotine pouches — including ZYNs — safely.
Are Nicotine Pouches Safe to Throw Away?
Due to government regulations, nicotine pouches can’t simply be tossed away or thrown into the trash.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the disposal of some nicotine substances, including nicotine pouches, nasal sprays, e-liquids and vape juices (including cartridges and vials), and nicotine used for research.
It classifies nicotine as “hazardous waste.” As a result, nicotine-containing items must be handled carefully and cannot be tossed into the trash.
Instead, users must take the waste to a hazardous waste facility.
The Importance of Safe Disposal
Improper disposal can cause accidental exposure to nicotine (which particularly affects young children) and nicotine poisoning. It may also lead to environmental damage.
Therefore, it’s important to take safe disposal seriously.
Can You Flush ZYNs Down the Toilet?
Due to the dangers outlined above, it’s also important to never throw nicotine pouches down the toilet or into drains (or any kind of water).
This might seem like a convenient way to get rid of pouches quickly, but it can also cause environmental pollution and accidental exposure to nicotine.
Are ZYNs Biodegradable?
ZYN and other nicotine pouches have biodegradable components — the sachets consist partly of biodegradable plant fibers.
However, the entire contents aren’t biodegradable, and even those that are take a very long time to decompose.
As a result, pouches should always be disposed of properly.
Can You Reuse ZYNs?
Do not reuse ZYNs or other nicotine pouches. Manufacturers designed pouches to release nicotine and flavor within around 30 minutes — after this point, they will have nothing left to offer the user.
Plus, reusing nicotine pouches is bad for oral health. Exposure to saliva can make them a hotbed for bacteria and germs.
Fortunately, nicotine pouches are affordable enough that consumers can reach for a new, clean pouch each time. This is especially true if users create an account with Prilla to take advantage of offers and discounts.
How to Use a ZYN Waste Compartment
It may seem inconvenient to take waste to a disposal facility, but there’s no need to do so immediately after nicotine pouch consumption. Many manufacturers have designed their pouch cans with careful disposal in mind, including ZYN.
Some pouch cans have a tiny compartment called a "catch lid,” which is essentially a hidden compartment at the top of the lid, although on some cans this can be found at the bottom (such as ZYN). After finishing with a pouch, the top of this catch lid can be flipped up and used for stashing used pouches.
Once the ZYN dispenser is full, place the used pouches into a sealable container for hazardous waste. Once safely contained, they need to be taken to the nearest hazardous waste facility.
However, bear in mind that the lids aren’t particularly spacious, with room only for one or two used pouches.
Some people even use catch lids as their container of choice to carry around unused pouches, since they take up much less space than carrying an entire tin around.
What if There’s No Waste Compartment?
Not every pouch manufacturer includes a dispenser in their can design.
However, there are custom-made tins online that hold pouches fashionably and have catch lids. These can be used instead of the can that comes with a nicotine pouch.
Plus, some people prefer not to have nicotine brands shown prominently, and like having a tin that represents their personality or style instead.
Other Tips for Handling Nicotine Pouches Safely
Below is some further guidance on how to handle nicotine pouch waste safely.
Be Mindful of Who is Around
It’s important to remember that used nicotine pouches may have some nicotine left in them, even after they’ve been used.
Be mindful of who can access sealed cans or catch lids.
Save an Empty Tin for Disposal
Those who use a lot of nicotine pouches during the day may want to save an empty tin as a disposal container.
Used pouches can be stored inside until the tin is full, then taken to a hazardous waste facility.
Don’t Drop Them
Since nicotine pouches aren’t fully biodegradable, pouch users should avoid throwing them on the ground.
Be a good consumer and take care to throw them away in a responsible and mess-free manner.
How to Dispose of Vapes
E-cigarette waste has gotten some press in recent years because of how damaging it can be for the environment. The FDA put together a guide for dealing with e-cigarettes waste, which advises avoiding handling the liquid or getting it on skin.
Instead, place it into a proper container and take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility at least every 90 days — much like nicotine pouch waste. It’s important also to avoid contact with pets and children to prevent accidental poisoning.
E-cigarettes also have batteries that should be removed before throwing them away. These can explode if stored improperly. Before discarding them, check with local authorities to see where they can be disposed of safely.
Safety First
Disposing of nicotine pouches safely and correctly is crucial for protecting humans and the environment. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be complex or difficult. Simply keep used nicotine pouches in a separate container, then take them to a hazardous waste disposal facility when convenient. Solutions like the ZYN waste compartment also facilitate easy disposal.
