What is Snus?

While they can look similar and are used in the same way, there are some key differences between snus and nicotine pouches:

• Ingredients. Snus contains ground tobacco, while nicotine pouches use plant-based fibres with added nicotine.
• Legality. Snus is illegal to sell in the UK, but nicotine pouches can be legally purchased by adults aged 18 and over.
• Experience. Snus offers a traditional tobacco flavour, while there is a wide selection of nicotine pouch flavours.

These differences mean that for British consumers, ‘snus’ often really means nicotine pouches in the UK, especially when buying products online or in stores.

Now you know the meaning of ‘snus’. Let’s carry on to explore what snus is made of and what snus is used for, before comparing different nicotine products.

Traditional Swedish snus is made of:

• Ground tobacco leaves
• Water
• Salt
• Sodium carbonate
• Aromatic flavourings (e.g., bergamot, juniper)
• Moisture-preserving agents

The tobacco in snus is pasteurised rather than fermented. This gives it a unique flavour and higher moisture level compared to other smokeless tobacco products.

Nicotine pouches (often called tobacco-free snus) contain:

• Plant-based fibres
• Nicotine (synthetic or extracted from tobacco plants)
• Flavourings
• pH adjusters and moisture regulators

When asking, “what is snus used for?”, the answer depends on the individual and the product type.

In the UK, snus typically refers to tobacco-free snus, also known as nicotine pouches. Users place the pouch under the lip, where nicotine is absorbed through lining into the bloodstream.

For many adult nicotine users, snus or nicotine pouches are chosen as a smoke-free alternative to cigarettes. They deliver nicotine but do not involve combustion, smoke, or vapour.

Others may buy tobacco-free snus because nicotine is a stimulant. Due to its stimulant nature, some users report feeling increased alertness, improved focus, and relaxation.

In fact, even some athletes use nicotine pouches, although the health impacts and performance effects are still being debated. 

So, what is snus used for? Overall, people use snus:

• To avoid the smoke and smell of cigarettes
• For convenience and discretion (no spitting required)
• To maintain nicotine intake without smoking

Snus comes in two main varieties: loose and portioned.

• Loose Snus: This is a moist powder that is shaped by hand into a portion. The original snus format, it is messier and less discreet than portioned snus.
• Portioned Snus: Introduced in the 1970s, portioned snus is pre-packed into small sachets for convenience.

Snus and nicotine pouches come in two different formats: Slim and Mini.

• Slim: A slim version for better fit under the lip.
• Mini: An extra small pouch for discreet use.

There are several nicotine products currently available. Cigarettes are the most widely known, while others include chewing tobacco, nicotine pouches, snuff, and dip.

• Cigarettes: Deliver nicotine through inhalation, which results in rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
• Nicotine Pouches: Like snus, nicotine is absorbed gradually through the oral lining of the mouth.
• Chewing Tobacco: A smokeless tobacco product that is chewed. Requires more saliva and spitting than snus.
• Snuff: A dry, powdered tobacco that is inhaled through the nose.
• Dip: A moist tobacco product that is placed between the lower lip and gum. It also requires more saliva and spitting than snus.

Snus and cigarettes both deliver nicotine, but through different methods.

Snus delivers nicotine through the mouth, where it is absorbed gradually. Snus tends to have a longer but less immediate effect compared to cigarettes.¹

Snus does not involve combustion and does not produce smoke. In contrast, smoking produces combustion (the burning of tobacco) which generates tar and toxic chemicals. 

According to the NHS, it is these chemicals in cigarette smoke which are linked to cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.²

However, snus is not entirely risk-free. See the section 'Snus: What Are The Side Effects?'.

Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are popular in the UK. Here are the top 5 leading brands:

• Nordic Spirit. This Swedish brand offers an extensive range of flavours, including Melon Fresh, Frosty Berry, and Tropical Mix.
• VELO. Also originating from Sweden, VELO nicotine pouches come in several flavours, with an emphasis on mint profiles.
• ZYN. A brand of all-white Scandinavian snus. One of the most popular nicotine pouch brands in the U.S.
• LOOP. Launched in 2019 by Another Snus Factory, LOOP specialises in unique flavour combinations.
• XQS. Active in the nicotine pouch market since 2005, the XQS selection delivers 15 different flavours in a slim format.

If you’re unsure which product is right for you, our nicotine pouch strength guide can help you compare options and find your ideal fit.

Side effects can occur when using snus.

These can happen due to ingesting too much nicotine or from over-using snus. It can also depend on your individual tolerance and nicotine habit.

These side effects can include:^{3, 4, 5}

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure 
• Gum irritation or recession
• Disrupted sleep 
• Headaches
• Dizziness  
• Withdrawal symptoms (when quitting)

Because nicotine is a highly addictive substance, addiction can also occur.

Find out more about snus side effects with our detailed guide.

For UK consumers, “what snus is” often refers to nicotine pouches–a tobacco-free, legal alternative to traditional Swedish snus.

Understanding the snus meaning, what is snus made of and what is snus used for can help you make an informed choice about the right product to suit your preference.