Snus is a practical substitute for smoking for many people. It has many advantages and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Have you decided to give it a try? In that case, it is important to consider several important parameters when making a purchase, so that you can choose the best product. What should you focus on and what should you avoid? We have prepared a clear guide for you.

What is snus and how is it used?

Chewing tobacco, also known as snus, is a smokeless tobacco product that can be sold in sachets or loose form. Its usage is very simple. You just need to place the sachets under your upper lip. As for loose snus, you need to shape it into a small ball before applying it.

Composition of snus

The composition of snus depends on the brand and product you choose. However, tobacco is usually the main ingredient.

Different types of snus

Snus can be divided into two main groups: loose form and sachets. Loose snus doesn’t have any specific subtypes. If you opt for it, it’s important to pay attention to the nicotine content, which should be lower for beginners.

If you decide to go for sachets, you need to be aware of the differences in sizes and formats.  

Sizes of sachets

In terms of sizes, you will commonly come across snus:

  • Normal – the standard size that is slightly visible under the lip. These sachets are ideal for home use.
  • Large – the largest sachets that contain a substantial amount of product. They are visible under the lip, so they are not suitable for use at work or in restaurants, for example.
  • Slim – a discreet and narrow format of pouches that is comfortable and hardly visible under the lip. Currently, it is one of the most popular sizes.
  • Super slim – sachets that are very similar to slim ones, but narrower. They provide a high level of discretion and comfort.
  • Mini – the smallest sachets available on the market. They have compact dimensions, making them completely invisible under the lip. You can enjoy snus anywhere you are.

Sachet formats

The second important parameter to consider when selecting is the sachet format. The most popular ones include:

  • Original portion – sachets of this format have a brown surface and are slightly moist. They are characterized by the immediate release of flavour and nicotine. A minor drawback is the need for more frequent spitting.
  • White Dry portion – these sachets have a white surface and are completely dry. They release flavour and nicotine gradually, ensuring a long-lasting and intense experience. The advantage is that they don’t stain teeth, and the need for spitting is minimal during their use.

What factors influence the selection of snus for beginners?

In addition to the size and format of the sachets, you should also consider other parameters that will affect your choice. What are they?

Nicotine content

Each snus manufacturer offers multiple products that differ mainly in their nicotine content. Brands max indicate this information either as the amount of nicotine in milligrams per sachet or as the amount of nicotine in milligrams per gram of the product.

Based on the nicotine content, sachets are divided into five groups:

  • extra light,
  • light,
  • medium,
  • strong,
  • extra strong.

There is no precise definition of how many milligrams of nicotine each group contains. Each brand has its own way of labelling products. While a product with a nicotine content of 10 mg/g may be considered extra light for some brands, others may categorize such content as light or even medium.

Due to the unclear categorization of products, it is important for you to pay attention to the nicotine content of snus and make your decision based on that.

For most beginners who classify themselves as “average smokers,” it is recommended to start with products containing 1 to 4 mg of nicotine per sachet. The dosage can gradually increase over time.

For heavy smokers, it is recommended to start with sachets containing 5 to 6 mg of nicotine. In this case as well, the dosage can be increased later on.

When choosing the nicotine content, it is important not to overdo it. Sachets are different from cigarettes. An overly intense snus could cause unwanted effects in the beginning.   

Flavour

Snus can come in variety of flavours. You can choose, for example:  

  • Classic flavours – an ideal choice for those who enjoy the spicy taste of tobacco and prefer it without any additional combinations.
  • Menthol flavours – suitable for lovers of fresh tastes. Many brands sell purely mint or menthol snus, or a combination of both.
  • Fruit flavours – pleasant and refreshingly sweet flavours, of which there are many. You can choose strawberry, pineapple, raspberry, lime, mango, orange, apple, blackcurrant flavours, or a combination of various fruits.
  • Icy flavours – common flavours enhanced with cool and fresh tones. They are an excellent option for summer or situations when you need a proper kick.
  • Interesting flavours – this category includes less traditional snus with flavours such as coffee, chocolate, coconut, sweet wood, or cinnamon.

What is the best snus for beginners?

If you are wondering about the best Swdish snus for beginners, the answer could be the brand Catch. They offer snus with a nicotine content of 8 mg/g. Another suitable choice is the brand Göteborgs Rapé, whose snus starts at approximately 9 mg/g, and General, which also sells snus with a nicotine content of 8.5 mg/g.  

For intermediate users, there are also other brands available, such as:

  • Lyft with refreshing flavours,
  • Velo, which delights with interesting flavours like Berry Frost or Creamy Coffee,
  • Loop, which specializes in combining unconventional flavours and surprises with products like Sicily Spritz or Jalapeño.

How to avoid unpleasant side effects?

A common side effect that many beginners encounter is tingling or burning sensations in the area where the sachet is placed. If this sensation becomes too uncomfortable for you, simply move the sachet from one side of your mouth to the other or take a sip of water.

You may also experience a burning sensation if you choose a snus that is too strong. Therefore, avoid going overboard with the intensity. Start at a lower level and gradually work your way up.

Snus alternatives

For those who want to quit smoking using snus or are simply looking for other interesting options, there are various alternatives available. One of them is nicotine sachets, which do not contain nicotine or tobacco. Brands like KickUp, Loop and Vika produce such products.

Tips for beginners on proper storage and use of snus

  • Store snus in the box in which you purchased it.
  • If you have purchased multiple boxes of snus, store the ones you are not currently using in a dark, dry, and cool place. A refrigerator can be suitable.
  • You can drink liquids while using snus, but most users tend to avoid them during this time.
  • Dispose used pouches in the trash or place them in a designated compartment in the box (some boxes have a space for used sachets).
  • If you experience dizziness or nausea while using snus, you have likely overdone it with the nicotine. Remove the sachet from your mouth and choose a milder product next time.