Informative article about snus

1.What is snus?

Snus is a smokeless tobacco product originating from Sweden. It is used by placing ground, moist tobacco between the upper lip and gums, allowing nicotine to be absorbed through the oral mucosa. Unlike cigarettes, it does not require burning and does not produce smoke. Common forms include small pouches or loose snus

2.Main Ingredients

Tobacco:Pasteurized (Swedish snus) or fermented (some American products).

Nicotine:The content varies depending on the brand, but typically contains 8-20 milligrams per gram.

Salt (sodium chloride):Enhances nicotine release and taste.

Humectants (such as glycerin, propylene glycol):Keep moist.

Flavoring:Mint, fruit, spices, etc. (some products contain sweeteners).

3.Health impacts: Controversy and risks

Relatively low risk:The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that smokeless tobacco is less carcinogenic than smoking, but it is not harmless.

Oral diseases:Long-term use may cause gum recession, tooth discoloration, and oral mucosal lesions.

Cancer risk:Swedish research shows that it significantly reduces the risk of lung cancer compared to smoking, but may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Addictiveness:Nicotine dependence is comparable to that of cigarettes, with similar withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, irritability, etc.)

Cardiovascular effects:It may slightly increase blood pressure, but the correlation is weaker than that of smoking.

4.Market and User Groups

Sweden: Legal and widely used, with a male usage rate of approximately 20%, which is associated with low smoking rates.

Europe and the US: Some countries (such as the US and Norway) permit sales, but most EU countries prohibit them (except Sweden).

Youth: Flavored products may attract young people and pose a risk of abuse.

5.Regulations and Controversies

Regulatory Differences: The US FDA classifies some oral tobacco products as “harm reduction products,” while the EU imposes strict restrictions.

Smoking Cessation Aids: Some studies support their use as smoking cessation tools, but the WHO warns they may serve as nicotine replacement rather than cessation.

Industry Marketing: Some manufacturers promote their products as “safer,” sparking public health concerns.

6.Comparison with other products

Snus vs cigarettes: No tar, carbon monoxide, or other combustion products, but nicotine intake may be higher.

Snus vs vape: Neither involves combustion, but e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, and their health effects are still being studied.

7.Precautions

Not harmless: Not recommended for non-smokers.

Pregnant women/adolescents: Nicotine affects fetal development and adolescent brain development, so it should be avoided at all costs.

Proper use: Avoid swallowing or prolonged retention to reduce mucosal irritation.

8.Expert advice

Quitting smoking is the priority: Complete nicotine withdrawal is the healthiest option.

Consult a doctor: If alternative therapies are needed, they should be used under professional guidance.

9.Summary

As a type of smokeless tobacco, smokeless tobacco has some potential for harm reduction, but it is not completely safe. Its health effects vary depending on usage patterns, frequency, and individual differences. The public should approach it rationally, avoiding blind substitution or abuse. Policy-making must balance harm reduction with preventing new forms of addiction.