Young football players often look up to the senior pros at their clubs, be it Marcus Rashford at Manchester United or Jamie Vardy at Leicester City. They see them scoring goals, earning loads of money and driving fancy cars.
They also see them using snus, a smokeless tobacco product that is placed under the upper lip. Despite being banned in many European countries, this 700-year-old tradition remains popular.
Origins
The word “snus” originates from the Swedish term snuff, referring to the finely grounded tobacco powder that is sniffed through the nose. The first snus products were manufactured in the 17th century, although the method for grinding and preparing the tobacco had existed for centuries before that. It was in the early 19th century that snus as we know it today became more popular. It was at that time that the traditional smoking method was replaced with snus being steam-pasteurised, which significantly improved the quality of the product and reduced the levels of harmful subtances.
The popularity of snus has increased considerably in recent years. It is currently the most common form of smokeless tobacco in Europe, and it has been reported that Sweden is the country with the lowest prevalence of cigarette use and the highest percentage of daily snus users in Europe [1].
Snus is not smoked and does not enter the lungs, so it is not known to increase the risk of oral cancer or cardiovascular diseases. However, some researchers believe that snus use may lead to an imbalance in the oral microbiota. An imbalance in the oral microbiota may cause problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and inflammation.
There is a growing market for smokeless tobacco in the United States, where Scandinavian snus is sold refrigerated at select stores and gas stations and sweetened American snus is more widely available. In addition, several manufacturers have introduced tobacco-free snus in porous pouches similar to those used for Scandinavian snus and American dipping tobacco.
In the US, snus is often confused with chewing tobacco, which is also known as “Makla” in Algeria. Makla is a moist tobacco that is placed in the mouth under the upper lip and is sold in Europe as well. In fact, Makla is similar to snus in many ways, but it is made from a different species of plant called damiana (Turnera diffusa). This is a shrub that grows in dry environments. It is an important source of herbal tea, and its leaves are also used as a substitute for tobacco.
Characteristics
Unlike cigarette, cigar or pipe tobacco, which are fire-cured, snus is steam-pasteurized. This allows it to be stored for longer periods of time without spoiling. It also has lower concentrations of TSNAs (tetracycline, phenylurea, and nicotine N’-nitrosamines) than smoking tobacco. This is mainly because snus is chewed rather than inhaled. Snus also has fewer chemicals that cause the irritation to oral mucosa.
It is also much drier than smoking tobacco, and as a result has an extended shelf life. Most snus can be stored unrefrigerated for up to a year or more. It also requires less moisture to begin dripping, and once it does it drips slowly.
Snus is often considered an effective cessation aid, and in a Swedish twin study [109], snus use was the strongest correlate of smoking cessation. This correlation remained after accounting for factors such as nicotine dependence, age, education and socioeconomic status. Other studies have found similar results.
Some people find that snus helps them quit smoking and maintain abstinence from cigarettes for a long period of time. However, the gateway hypothesis argues that snus users are more likely to start smoking than non-users and may serve as a vehicle to smoke. The gateway effect has been studied in various ways, including examining snus brands and flavorings. One analysis found that the more flavored the snus, the higher the rate of smoker conversion.
Although snus has been shown to be an effective cessation aid, it is also linked to serious health risks. Oral lesions are reported to be common in snus users, and these can lead to gum disease and dental problems. In addition, a recent epidemiological study found that current snus use was associated with a significant increase in risk of myocardial infarction compared to those who never used smokeless tobacco. The authors of this study emphasized that the association was independent of other known confounding variables such as age, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. This suggests that snus can be considered a significant public health concern and it is important for researchers to continue to monitor this issue.
Taste
The taste of siberia snus is powerful and aromatic. It has a mix of classic strong Swedish snus flavours with pepper and spice as well as hints of bergamot. It has a high nicotine strength and comes in non-moistened pouches for a minimal drip and a longer taste experience. The pouches are also normal sized for a comfortable feel under the lip.
This is one of the most popular brands of snus in Sweden. Its minty and spicy flavour and high nicotine content makes it a favorite among experienced smokers. It is not recommended for beginners as the high nicotine content may cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat. It is sold in standard green plain packaging.
GN Tobacco’s Siberia -80 White Dry Extra Strong is another of their highly popular snus products. This super strong snus has a high nicotine content of 43mg/g and is delivered in slim pouches that fit nicely under the lip for a discreet snus experience. The tobacco used is mixed with fresh spearmint and the flavor of this snus is very intense, which makes it a great option for those who like a stronger nicotine experience.
It is important to note that snus has been linked to lower rates of health problems than traditional cigarettes. It is also believed to reduce the risk of gum diseases, oral cancers and other dental issues. However, there is still insufficient evidence to determine how snus can affect other serious medical conditions.
Some research has shown that snus can cause harm to the teeth and gums when used incorrectly. In addition, it has been associated with an imbalance in the oral microbiota. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, and many factors can influence the balance. Despite these concerns, snus is not known to be addictive and has been used for harm reduction in Sweden for decades.
In fact, snus is now available refrigerated in the United States at smoke shops and select gas stations. Unlike the more common American-style sweetened snus, Scandinavian snus does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. However, it is important to remember that any tobacco product can damage your health and is therefore addictive.
Smell
This brand is known for its white snus that does not leave any tobacco residue on the teeth, but also has a cooling mint flavor. It is very popular amongst users of white snus and is especially suitable for those who like strong nicotine kicks.
A typical Siberia snus package has a normal/large size portion and contains 43mg of nicotine per gram of snus. This snus is also available in slim (tight) portions and in a mini version as well. The latter usually has a lower moisture content and releases the flavor much slower than the normal/large size pouches.
The snus is steam-pasteurized and therefore does not contain the carcinogens that are released when smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes. It also does not cause the same amount of nitrosamines to form in the bloodstream as tobacco smoke does. This is why snus has become so popular in recent years as an alternative to smoking for many people.
While the majority of snus users are former smokers, there has been an increase in the number of new snus users who have never smoked. In addition, snus can be used by people of all ages. This makes it an interesting alternative to chewing gum and other nicotine products that are often banned in schools, workplaces or public places where smoking is not allowed.
There are many different types of snus on the market and the brands differ in taste, strength and smell. Some have a pleasant, mild aroma, while others smell like chemical shit. There are also a few brands that smell exactly like that, and they are particularly popular with the tweekers. Snus has a very unique and intoxicating scent that cannot be explained, but it can only be experienced. The odor is the result of ammonia that is released during the basification process of the tobacco. When it is packed into a can and stored at room temperature, the ammonia gas is released again, and this is what causes the famous siberia smell. Some snus users actually grow to enjoy this, as it adds to the experience of the snus.