Oct 1, 2024
Snus versus nicotine pouches
Snus and nicotine pouches are smoke-free alternatives that adult nicotine users use orally, i.e. by placing it in their mouth. Despite the similarities, nicotine pouches and snus are slightly different products that may be suitable for an adult smoker making the switch from cigarettes.
It is worth noting that nicotine pouches and snus are not risk-free, and they contain nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker or adult nicotine user can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. Smoke-free products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.
What is snus?
Pronounced ‘snoose’, snus is the name for a group of oral smokeless products that usually contain tobacco and nicotine. Snus typically comes in the following forms:
Loose powder
Loose powder is the first form of modern snus, and its production started in Sweden during the 18th century. This is why adult nicotine users sometimes refer to it as ‘Swedish snus’. Manufacturers generally make this original form of snus from ground tobacco. Adult nicotine users can usually mould the powder into portions themselves. There are three common varieties of loose-powder snus:
- Coarse
- Medium
- Fine grind
Original portion
Emerging in the 1970s, original portions are a pre-packaged form of ground tobacco. Unlike loose powder, pre-packaged portions may be a more convenient option, depending on the individual’s preferences. The product – often referred to as ‘portion snus’ – is usually moist on the surface and has a dark colour. It delivers an instant release of flavour and nicotine.
White portion
Another form of ground tobacco, these pouches are typically dry. Manufacturers usually do not moisten white pouches during the creation process. This results in less drip production during use and lower salivation for the adult user. Furthermore, white-portion snus often provides a longer-lasting flavour than the original portions.
Another form of ground tobacco, these pouches are typically dry. Manufacturers usually do not moisten white pouches during the creation process. This results in less drip production during use and lower salivation for the adult user. Furthermore, white-portion snus often provides a longer-lasting flavour than the original portions.
All-white portion
All-whites are a variation of snus that usually contain a mix of tobacco and cellulose – a fibre found in vegetables and fruits, like pears and apples. Unlike other snus types, all-whites generally have an entirely white appearance – hence the name. The product is dry, so it usually takes a few seconds for the flavour to release.
As well as different snus types, there are also different pouch sizes for adult users to consider – unless purchasing loose powder. The four most common sizes of snus are categorised generally in this way:
All-whites are a variation of snus that usually contain a mix of tobacco and cellulose – a fibre found in vegetables and fruits, like pears and apples. Unlike other snus types, all-whites generally have an entirely white appearance – hence the name. The product is dry, so it usually takes a few seconds for the flavour to release.
As well as different snus types, there are also different pouch sizes for adult users to consider – unless purchasing loose powder. The four most common sizes of snus are categorised generally in this way:
- Large – usually contains between 0.65 and 1.1 grams of snus, depending on the product and brand.
- Slim – generally a more comfortable fit for adult users. As they are smaller than ‘large’ portions, ‘slim’ pouches contain less snus – around 0.7 to 0.9 grams. ‘Slim’ portions usually provide a longer-lasting flavour with less excess liquid than ‘large’ pouches.
- Super slim – this modern form of snus is even more compact than ‘slim’ portions. A ‘super slim’ portion commonly contains around 0.5 grams of snus.
- Mini – the smallest and most discreet size, a ‘mini’ portion usually holds 0.3 to 0.5 grams of snus, depending on the product and brand.
The above portion sizes are general, and the exact amount of snus per portion will depend on the brand and individual product.
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are a more modern oral smokeless product and a different option to traditional snus. Unlike snus, nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco. While the two products are similar, manufacturers usually use cellulose, flavourings (such as fruit or menthol) and nicotine in the production of a nicotine pouch. The nicotine is typically extracted directly from the tobacco plant.
Adult nicotine users place nicotine pouches in their mouth for a flavourful nicotine experience. They should then dispose of the pouch after use. Find more information on nicotine pouches
Adult nicotine users place nicotine pouches in their mouth for a flavourful nicotine experience. They should then dispose of the pouch after use. Find more information on nicotine pouches
What are the differences between snus and nicotine pouches?
One of the key differences between snus and a nicotine pouch is that snus contains tobacco, whereas nicotine pouches do not. Tobacco remains the predominant flavour for snus products, whereas nicotine pouches feature a greater variety of tastes due to the different flavourings involved.
Another difference is the way in which an adult nicotine user should store the products. Typically, snus should be stored in a refrigerator. As nicotine pouches generally have a longer shelf life, they do not need refrigerating. Furthermore, snus portions are larger than nicotine pouches, although this depends on the brand and specific product.
Another difference is the way in which an adult nicotine user should store the products. Typically, snus should be stored in a refrigerator. As nicotine pouches generally have a longer shelf life, they do not need refrigerating. Furthermore, snus portions are larger than nicotine pouches, although this depends on the brand and specific product.
This article is for general information purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources, and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.