In these unprecedented times filled with stress and anxiety, we have all devised our ways to deal with the daily struggles. To some coffee acts as a saviour, to others, tobacco is the last resort. For all of us enjoying a cigarette whilst burdened with the guilt of abusing our lungs, Snusdirect has a solution. Snus and nicotine pouches are the next big thing for people who wish to cut back on the health issues and still enjoy the regular nicotine rush. Let us look at a couple of things to keep in mind while shopping for alternate ways of nicotine consumption a.k.a Snus and nicotine pouch shopping.
Snus and nicotine pouches are a successful nicotine replacement treatment with lower health risks as compared to smoking. The sale of snus is banned in the EU to curb tobacco usage. As a result, a massive shift has been observed in Swedish youngsters who have opted for Snus over cigarettes.
A safer alternative to healthy living is offered in the form of tobacco-free Snus which sort of kills its point. However, those of us who are in it because it is a way of life, have the option to opt for tobacco-free Snus. Snus gained popularity as an upper-class luxury in the 18th century and many continue its usage out of habit as an ornamental necessity. However, before taking the plunge, it is important to be aware of a few things associated with Snus and Nicotine pouches. Here are some of them.
1. Smoking Kills, Smokeless Tobacco Does Not
Snus is a powdered smokeless form of tobacco that is used as an alternative to the active smoking of cigarettes. Snus traces its origin back to 13th Century Sweden as a variant of dry Snuff. Unlike cigarettes, Snus is pocket-friendly and cuts back on the cancer-causing lung abuse due to smoking. However, it contains nicotine which is still highly addictive.
Nicotine pouch, on the other hand, contains nicotine, water, sugar additives and plant-based fibres. The distinguishing factor between Snus and a nicotine pouch is that Snus contains finely ground tobacco leaves whereas a nicotine pouch is tobacco-free and stands out as a smokeless option.
Both Snus and Nicotine pouches come in the form of small sachets. Snus can be bought in loose form as well. Snus meaning ‘number one’ gained popularity among females in the 18th century. It was considered as the socially acceptable form of tobacco as it didn’t require the need to spit unlike the American dipping tobacco or naswar.
The need for a nicotine pouch arose from the struggle of a smoker who wished to quit. Nicotine pouch provides a tobaccoless alternative making it safer than Snus whereas Snus is used to get a robust kick of nicotine in your system without the smoking hassle.
2. Types of Snus
Swedish or American Snus? Your first instinct would be ‘Who cares’. Beyond their obvious cultural differences, the swedes and Americans differ in quality and flavour as well. It is a common misconception to club the two. The main difference being sugar additives in the American Snus for better flavouring. So, if you are a diabetic trying to make sound tobacco decisions and cut back on cigarettes, you know what your sugar-free smokeless tobacco options are.
Swedish Snus has the highest production quality in the market. It is a moist form of smokeless tobacco that can be tucked under the upper lip and requires no spitting. It is offered in various mild food-grade smokey flavours.
American Snus has a lower moisture content when compared to its Scandanavian cousin resulting in less absorption of nicotine. It contains sugar additives and comes in flavours such as cherry, spearmint. American Snus has an overbearing sweet aftertaste due to robust flavouring agents. Unlike the Swedish Snus, Americans prefer to spit to get rid of the gastronomical side effects.
3. Portioned or Loose?
Loose Snus is often sold in cylindrical or spherical boxes specifically designed to ease the pinching of the moist loose powdered Snus. Its popularity has taken a beat since the key to using Snus successfully is rationing it well to avoid the side effects and overbearing nicotine rush. Loose snus is easy to use but the quantity of consumption is controlled by the user. As a result one may opt for a hayride with dire consequences as proportion restraint is the key to enjoy Snus effectively. There has been a switch from the usage of loose snus to portioned Snus.
Portioned Snus is a discreet and balanced way of consuming Snus. It is available in three types varying in moisture content, slow nicotine release rate and protective layers provided to reduce the risk of gum diseases.
4. Be wary of the Side effects
Nicotine pouches being tobacco-free have manageable side effects like hiccups or sore mouth. Having said that, they should never be consumed without doctor consultation. Your doctor can decide the best nicotine replacement therapy for you and the required consumption rate to ease withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine pouches are placed orally and hence they should never be shared or swallowed. Contact your doctor at the earliest if you swallow a nicotine pouch.
Snus contains powdered tobacco leaves which positions it between dipping tobacco and nicotine pouches. Snus is steam pasteurized unlike smoking tobacco that is fire-cured, resulting in lower levels of carcinogens in Snus. Snus is not inhaled resulting in little to no effect on the lungs. It is considered less harmful not just for the user but the surrounding as well. Cigarette smoke causes harmful effects due to secondhand smoke, whereas snus is an intimate option. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised against consumption of any form of nicotine. However, like cigarettes, Snus stains teeth and increases the risk of heart problems.
5. Debunking Myths
One of the most common myths surrounding Snus is that it contains glass particles for better absorption of nicotine. Not only is it absurd but absolutely false too. There are powdered wood and cornflour packaged as Snus sold in the market that one should be wary of. Do your research before you buy flavoured sawdust from a stranger that leaves a foul taste of disappointment in your mouth.
6. Quitting is Possible
Quitting tobacco seems hard and requires patience and resilience but there are ways to help you do it. Consulting doctors at the right time not only saves time and money but reduces long term side effects as well. Other nicotine therapy replacement alternatives include nicotine patches, gums, nasal sprays, inhalers etc. There is help when you need it, all you need to do is ask for it.
Conclusion
Both Snus and nicotine pouches are safer alternatives to nicotine consumption through smoking. Although it isn’t FDA approved it is the lesser of two evils when compared to smoking. We wish you a Happy nicotine sailing.
