Not everyone can tell the difference between snus and nicotine pouches, and it’s easy to see why - they look similar, share similarities, and in some cases are even made by the same brands. However, there are some important differences between the two. Read on to learn more.
What is snus?
Snus is a tobacco-based product from Sweden. It can be traced back to the 17th century when widespread use of snuff led to Swede farmers growing, grinding, and experimenting with their own tobacco. Instead of inhaling snuff, they blended it with other substances, left it to ferment, and would then take portions of the mixture - known as snus - and orally enjoy its effects by placing it under the upper lip.
But what’s in the mixture, and what effect does it have on you? Nowadays, most snus come loose (as the mixture) or in pouches (also known as portions or Swedish snus). They contain tobacco mixed with salt, water, and artificial flavourings or sweeteners, while snus pouches are made from material similar to tea bags. When you place snus under your upper lip, they release flavour and a pleasant nicotine buzz.
There are two types of portion snus:
- Original: Also known as “wet”, these are more traditional Swedish snus with pouches that are moist and brown in colour. They release nicotine and flavour quickly.
- White: Also known as “dry”, these are more modern snus with pouches that remain dry during the manufacturing process (their colour may vary and even be brown, as “white” here refers to their style). They release nicotine and flavour slowly and more consistently.
A recent study revealed a curious fact about snus - they have played a significant role in the dramatic decline of smoking in Sweden and Norway. This is because, unlike vaping, they are a smokeless tobacco product that does not pose any health risks to your lungs. Nor do they cause bad breath or stained teeth. All while delivering the same nicotine buzz as cigarettes.
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches don’t have quite as long a history as snus. They were first manufactured in the early 2000s for medicinal purposes as a tobacco-free nicotine product. And that is the major difference between them and snus - they are tobacco-free products, unlike snus which contain tobacco.
They tend to contain nicotine salt, food-grade fillers, sweeteners, and flavourings. The nicotine salt may be synthetic, or the result of extracting and crystallising nicotine from tobacco plants. Nicotine pouches aren’t illegal, though they are banned in certain countries, and are classified as tobacco products in America due to their nicotine being sourced from tobacco. Like snus, they are smoke-free, provide a pleasant nicotine kick, and are taken orally under the upper lip. Studies even suggest they can possibly help many quit smoking.
Differences between snus and nicotine pouches
As mentioned before, snus and nicotine pouches share many similarities. Here, however, are their two key differences:
- Tobacco: Snus contain tobacco, while nicotine pouches are tobacco-free and do not contain tobacco leaf or snuff.
- Shelf-life: Nicotine pouches have a longer shelf-life than snus, and they tend to last longer as well.
Snus users and nicotine pouch users may debate which one has a quicker or more sustained nicotine release, though this will be influenced by nicotine content per portion. What both users can agree upon is that snus and nicotine pouches are discrete and can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime. What’s more, they come in a variety of great flavours and release a pleasant nicotine buzz to help you unwind.
If you’re curious about trying snus or nicotine pouches, make sure you shop with us. We carry tried-and-tested brands and the finest flavours on sale. More importantly, we use specially designed cold-storage rooms to store and pack our products - thereby ensuring they are the freshest and most flavourful snus and nicotine pouches you can enjoy!