Thousands of cigarette smokers around the world are looking for effective ways to help kick the detrimental habit. There are numerous solutions in the market but most work in the short-term or induce debilitating side effects. However, there is a 19th-century solution that is taking over the mainstream. Technological innovation has aroused ingenious and creative methods to consume tobacco. A while back, tobacco was either smoked, sniffed, or chewed. But now we have products boasting a harm reduction potential like snus.
Compared to cigarettes, snus is very popular in sweden and other European countries like Norway. Studies indicate that a growing number of Swedish smokers have taken up snus in a bid to stop smoking. The country currently recognizes snus as a viable harm reduction alternative to cigarettes. Scientists and advocates alike are proposing an agenda for global governments to:
- Allow and encourage the legal use of this product to curb cigarette-related health conditions like lung cancer and non-neoplastic oral disease.
- Create smoke-free countries
But why is this? Read on as we explore what snus is, and the reasons behind its growing popularity.
So, What Is Snus?
Contrary to popular belief, snus was inspired by snuff which was introduced to Sweden by the elite class of France. Swedish manufacturers then upgraded the product which was sniffed to come up with a moist tobacco compound, which we now know as snus. Companies like Röda Lacket were the pioneers in the field. Back then, it was made primarily for the aristocrats, but as manufacturing progressed, it quickly replaced chewing and smoking tobacco and became available to all citizens.
Snus is moistened tobacco that’s available pre-packaged in miniature pouches. You ingest the active ingredients via sublabial absorption by placing a pouch between your gums and inner lip. It comes in a variety of brand names each marketing varying flavors.
Benefits Of Using Snus
- Healthier alternative To smoking
Cigarettes contain carcinogenic substances that are detrimental to the health of smokers and people around them. Snus is very popular in Sweden due to its proven ability to reduce the urge to smoke leading to quitting. Since you do not inhale snus, you eliminate the harmful effects of smoking. A downside is that snus is highly-addictive. But considering you get to avoid ingesting toxins like benzene, snus is a game-changer.
- Ease Of Use
Traditionally, tobacco products were either smoked, chewed, or sniffed. Then came vaping and dermal patches. However, compared to all the above methods of application, placing it underneath the upper lip for absorption tops them all.
Moreover, these white pouches are very convenient. Snus pouches promote discreteness. People around you won’t even know when you are using one. Someone who smokes will carry around their cigarette pack and have to look for a designated smoking zone. You can enjoy the benefits of tobacco from anywhere and at any time you please.
- Readily Available
The legal status around snus is a bit vague and varies from one place to another. Therefore, ensure you check any local laws. All the same, snus is easily available in online stores. You can buy one without a prescription. In non-EU countries, you can find them in local shops and chemists.
Final Take
Anyone who has tried to stop smoking can attest to how tough it is to quit. Smoking tobacco is highly discouraged. Thus, snus seems like a feasible alternative to maintaining your health.
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