Snus is a moist finely ground smokeless tobacco product that is placed between the upper lip and gums for extended periods, as a form of sublabial administration. It originated in Sweden and is currently sold in the United States in sealable pouches. It is less harmful than smoking and can help prevent relapse in smokers, but it still has some serious risks when used heavily.
Scientific research indicates that snus is less harmful than cigarette smoking, but it is still addictive and can lead to a variety of health issues. Heavy use increases the risk of heart issues, can cause gum damage and tooth loss and reduces sleep quality. It also slows recovery times for muscular injuries, and can increase the risk of diabetes, cancer, oral diseases and gastrointestinal issues such as gum inflammation and mouth lesions oral mucosal lesions.
In addition to being highly addictive, snus is also one of the most toxic forms of tobacco products because it contains high levels of carcinogenic chemicals. These include nicotine, phenols and volatile organic compounds, which have been linked to cancer in humans. The World Anti-Doping Agency lists snus as a potentially dangerous substance and has banned it in some countries.
Although snus can be quite potent, the concentration of many harmful chemicals in snus has dropped significantly in recent years thanks to advances in production and storage techniques. Moreover, the risk of addiction and dependency is lower than with other tobacco products. In fact, regular snus usage is associated with a decreased risk of respiratory disease, including lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal illnesses.
There are many different types of snus available, with original and white portions being the most popular. Original portions have a higher moisture content, which means they release nicotine and flavor quickly and are easier to use. White portions have a lower moisture content, which makes them dry and more discreet, while providing the same nicotine delivery and flavor experience.
Strong snus has a much higher nicotine content than regular and is designed for users with a high tolerance to the substance. It provides a very intense kick and is often used to start the day or after a meal.
Lastly, mini portions have a very thin surface area and are the most discreet and modern type of snus. They are almost invisible under the lip, comfortable to wear and unnoticeable in terms of mouthfeel. However, since they have a very low surface area, they are less effective at nicotine and flavor transfer.
There are many different snus flavors to try, with most products falling into the tobacco-centric or mint or fruit categories. There are also savory or beverage-inspired options, which can have both sweet and smoky notes. Tobacco-centric flavours are particularly popular with traditional snus users, who prefer the natural tobacco taste rather than added flavourings.