Snus vs Nicotine Pouches: how to tell the difference?

Perhaps you've already heard of snus or nicotine pouches as alternatives to cigarettes. Yet these two products are not entirely similar. Between composition, effects, regulations and uses, the differences deserve to be well understood.

Things to remember

• Snus contains tobacco, whereas nicotine pouches are tobacco-free.
• The sale of snus is banned in the European Union (except in Sweden), while nicotine pouches are legal.
• Although the nicotine effect is similar, the health risks, compositions and accessibility differ.

Snus: its composition, origins and legal framework

Here's everything you need to know about snus at a glance.

What is snus?

Snus is a moist tobacco product from Sweden. It consists of hydrated tobacco powder, often flavored, presented in a small sachet or used in bulk. To consume, simply place the snus under the lip, gradually releasing the nicotine into the bloodstream.

This method of administration provides a smooth, continuous absorption of nicotine, without combustion. For many users, this means they can avoid smoking while maintaining their nicotine ritual.

The composition of snus

The ingredients in snus vary. They include tobacco, salt, flavorings (menthol, fruit, spices), stabilizers and sometimes alkalizing agents. Tobacco naturally contains nitrosamines, substances recognized for their carcinogenic potential. This is the first fundamental difference with nicotine pouches.

Regulations concerning snus

The sale of snus is banned throughout the European Union, with the exception of Sweden, where it is widely used. This ban was voted through in Europe because of the oral and general health risks posed by snus. In particular, the product could cause cancer of the mouth, gums and teeth. 

Although diabetes and cardiovascular disease are also reported among regular snus users, Swedish studies point out that it is less harmful than cigarettes in terms of overall mortality.

Nicotine pouches: the smoke-free alternative

Fortunately, there's now a tobacco-free alternative. Here's what you need to know about nicotine pouches.

What are nicotine pouches?

Nicotine pouches are products similar to snus, but without tobacco. They are also known as nicotine pouches or "pouches". Visually, they resemble snus pouches, but contain only nicotine (synthetic or extracted), plant fibers (such as cellulose), flavors, sweeteners and texturizing agents.

These pouches are becoming increasingly popular in Europe, offering consumers a legal and potentially less harmful option than snus.

Why is this an interesting alternative?

Pouches are perfectly legal in most European countries, as they contain no tobacco, avoiding the restrictions usually applied to tobacco products. 

Secondly, they are less harmful than alternatives such as snus. In fact, since they don't contain tobacco, they don't contain nitrosamines, the carcinogenic substances found in tobacco products. 

They also offer a wide variety of flavors and dosages. Whether you prefer a refreshing minty taste or a sweeter fruity note, you'll easily find a sachet to suit you, with a suitable nicotine content (generally between 2 mg and 20 mg per sachet).

What are the differences between snus and nicotine pouches?

Snus contains tobacco, hence the presence of nitrosamines and other carcinogenic substances. Conversely, nicotine pouches contain no tobacco.

This distinction is crucial. Even if the nicotine effect is similar, the health risks associated with smoking are not present with pouches.

Both products deliver nicotine continuously via the oral mucosa, without irritating the respiratory tract. The effect is similar, i.e. a gradual rise in nicotine levels, followed by a decrease as use progresses. 

Snus is a deeply-rooted tradition in Sweden, with cultural legitimacy. As for pouches, they are designed to replace all forms of nicotine. Their discreet appearance and pre-measured format appeal to young adults and ex-smokers alike.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each product?

Warning

Whether you opt for snus, if the legal framework allows, or pouches, remember that nicotine products carry risks.

• Buy products from specialized stores and make sure they comply with local standards.
• Read the information on nicotine content, ingredients and origin.
• Start with a low dose, especially if you are sensitive to nicotine.
• If you have any health problems (high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease), consult your doctor before taking the plunge.

As you'll have gathered, the difference between snus and nicotine pouches isn't limited to tobacco content. There are now even derivatives of these products, such as CBD snus for discreet relaxation.