RFK Jr. praises nicotine as tech companies hand it to workers

Palantir stocks free Lucy-branded pouches in its offices while doctors warn the products are addictive with unknown long-term risks.

nicotine is bad

The conspiracy theorist overseeing U.S. health policy wants to rehabilitate nicotine.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called nicotine pouches "probably the safest way to consume nicotine," while wellness influencers promote the addictive drug for focus, energy, and relaxation.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. claimed that nicotine pouches, which are a smokeless nicotine product that people put on their gums, are "probably the safest way to consume nicotine" and was also allegedly seen using a nicotine pouch in his mouth during his Senate confirmation hearings.

Tech companies like Palantir are gifting workers with pouches to keep them productive. The story makes employees seem like rats in cages.

Now, as companies stock their fridges with these pouches—usually the size of a piece of gum that remains tucked between one's gums and cheek—they're seeing an increased byproduct of the new office treat: If you can't get them hooked on the work, get them hooked on the office perks.

The pouches are available for free in Palantir's offices for employees and guests over the age of 21, a Palantir spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal. Palantir, which did not respond to requests for comment, pays to stock the products. 

Eliano A. Younes, Palantir's head of strategic engagement, posted a photo on X of a Lucy-branded vending machine filled with nicotine products, with the caption: "Palantir DC Office 🤝 @LucyNicotine 😵‍💫 🚀."

RFK Jr. is giving the nicotine wellness craze federal credibility.