Michael Kannes
14/11/2024 • 5 min readAs smokeless nicotine products gain popularity, it can be helpful to understand the differences between the two most common types: snus and nicotine pouches. While both products offer an alternative to smoking, they vary significantly in composition, usage, and legality. In this article, we’ll highlight these differences to help you make an informed choice.
Snus is a moist, smokeless tobacco product that originated in Sweden and has been a part of Scandinavian culture for centuries. Traditionally, it’s placed under the upper lip, where nicotine is absorbed through the mucous membranes. Snus is available in two forms: loose snus, where users shape the tobacco into a small ball or "prilla," and pre-portioned sachets, which are more convenient and discreet.
The word "snus" is Swedish for “snuff” and refers to finely ground tobacco. In Sweden, snus is more than just a product; it’s a cultural staple deeply embedded in the country’s history and daily life.
Snus typically appear as small, teabag-like sachets that are brownish due to their tobacco content. On the other hand, loose snus is a moist, finely ground tobacco that users shape into a ball or “prilla” before placing it under their lip. The appearance of snus is often associated with its traditional, earthy flavour and strong nicotine kick.
Snus releases nicotine slowly through the mucous membranes in the mouth, providing a prolonged and steady nicotine experience compared to smoking. Users of snus often experience a steady nicotine buzz without the need to inhale smoke, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smokeless alternative.
Despite the similar usage method, Nordic Spirit is not technically snus. It is a nicotine pouch product that contains nicotine but no tobacco. Marketed as a cleaner alternative to snus, Nordic Spirit offers a similar experience without the health risks associated with tobacco.
The most significant difference between snus and nicotine pouches lies in their composition. Snus contains tobacco, nicotine, salt, water, and flavourings, while nicotine pouches are completely tobacco-free, containing only nicotine, flavours, and plant fibres. This difference impacts the flavour—where snus typically has a stronger, more traditional taste compared to the often fruity or minty nicotine pouches—and influences their legal status. Nicotine pouches are widely accepted in many countries due to the absence of tobacco, while snus faces stricter regulations and is banned in most EU countries except Sweden.
The legality of snus varies around the world. In the European Union, snus is banned in all member states except Sweden, which is part of the cultural heritage. The ban is primarily due to health concerns, including the potential links between snus and oral cancers. A press release published by Harvard emphasises that snus may increase the risk of death among prostate cancer patients. However, in the United States, snus is regulated as a tobacco product under the FDA but is not banned.
Nicotine is the primary addictive substance found in both snus and nicotine pouches, derived from the tobacco plant. However, while tobacco is present in snus, it is entirely absent in nicotine pouches, making products like Nordic Spirit, Zyn, and Velo popular tobacco-free alternatives. These brands offer a range of flavours and nicotine strengths, appealing to users looking for a cleaner way to enjoy nicotine without the risks associated with tobacco.
Snus and nicotine pouches both offer unique ways to consume nicotine without smoking, but they cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional experience of snus or the modern convenience of nicotine pouches, understanding these differences is key to making an informed choice.
