Dispositivo IQOS ILUMA

9 May 2024

What is Snus?

Snus is a moist tobacco product, originating from Sweden, that is consumed orally by placing it under the upper lip. Unlike other tobacco products, snus is not smoked, meaning it does not produce smoke or ashes. While it is part of Swedish culture, it has been completely banned in the rest of the European Union since 1989.

How Does Snus Work?

Snus releases nicotine when placed between the lip and gum. The oral mucosa absorbs the nicotine, which can vary depending on the type and strength of the snus used, and then it is distributed throughout the body. Although some users consider it an alternative to cigarettes without the associated combustion and smoke, it is important to emphasize that it is still a tobacco product with its own health risks and that it is prohibited in Spain.

What Are the Different Types of Snus?

Adult consumers usually find snus in four common forms:
  • Loose powder: In 18th century Sweden, manufacturers first created modern snus in the form of loose powder. This powder consists of ground tobacco, which adult users can mold into portions and sizes that best suit their preferences. The most common types of loose powder are coarse, medium, and fine grind.
  • Original portion: Unlike loose powder, original portions are prepackaged and ready for consumption. Manufacturers produce original portion snus from ground tobacco, which they moisten to help deliver nicotine and flavor to the adult consumer immediately. The product is darker than other snus pouches.
  • White portion: White portion snus is dry, unlike the original portions. This can provide less drip, less salivation, and a more prolonged experience for the adult user. White portion snus is usually not as dark as the original portions. It has a slightly white color.
  • All white portion: Adult consumers can identify these portions by their white appearance. They usually contain a mix of cellulose and tobacco, which are combined to create a dry product. Normally, they release their flavor within seconds.

What Are the Different Sizes of Snus?

In addition to the different forms, there are different sizes of snus pouches. This does not affect loose powder snus, but it is an important factor for any prepackaged product.
  • Large: Larger portions usually contain between 0.65 and 1.1 grams of tobacco, depending on the product and brand.
  • Slim: Slim portions are smaller than large ones. Due to their size, they might be more comfortable for an adult consumer. However, this must be checked product by product. Each portion typically contains between 0.7 and 0.9 grams of tobacco, depending on the specific product.
  • Super slim: Being an even smaller portion, an adult consumer might choose this size for the added discretion and potential comfort of a smaller pouch. Super slim portions usually contain about 0.5 grams of tobacco.
  • Mini: The smallest available pouch, mini portions, usually contain around 0.3 to 0.5 grams of tobacco, depending on the product and brand.

What Are the Differences Between Snus and Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are another smokeless oral option for adult smokers or adult nicotine consumers, and at first glance, they may seem quite similar to snus. Like snus, the pouch is consumed orally by placing it in the mouth.

There are some differences between these two smokeless oral alternatives:

  • Ingredients: snus contains tobacco, while nicotine pouches usually do not contain it.
  • Shelf life: nicotine pouches typically have a longer shelf life and do not need refrigeration.
  • Different sizes: snus is generally available in larger portions/sizes. However, the size of a product varies by brand.
  • Different moisture levels: nicotine pouches usually contain a higher level of moisture with a higher pH content, although this is not always the case. Always check the manufacturer's information for accurate moisture levels and pH content of each product.

Legal Alternatives to Traditional Tobacco in Spain

For adult smokers who wish to switch to a smoke-free alternative, there are other options that are not snus and comply with the regulations in Spain: the range of IQOS devices, designed for adult smokers who would otherwise continue smoking and which stand out for not burning tobacco, but heating it through an induction system and thus, do not produce smoke.

IQOS ILUMA devices are intuitive and easy to use, and they stand out for their long-lasting battery. They also allow a wide range of customization options with accessories such as cases, ring sets, wraps and sleeves, allowing you to adapt your device to your preferences and personal style.
(Disclaimer: The consumption of snus is completely prohibited in Spain. While it may be interesting to learn about this product and how it works, it is essential to respect local laws and regulations related to tobacco and tobacco-derived products. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Part of the information contained in this article is based on external third-party sources, so we do not guarantee the accuracy, validity, or completeness of such information.)