Richard Crosby 29 May 2024

 

So it’s my view that there’s been a big mix up about ‘snus’ use in the UK, largely due to incorrect definitions, dodgy information and lazy marketing. Snus, a Swedish tobacco product, is actually illegal to sell in the UK and across the European Union. So, chances are, if you think you’re seeing ‘snus’ for sale in the UK, it’s probably not the real deal.

This major issue seems to be something overlooked majorly in a recent study conducted by Loughborough University and commissioned by the PFA. One of the research objectives was to “provide a reliable estimate of snus use in English football.” – what they’ve actually failed to do is define snus properly – or provide any examples of the product. They simply ask a likely misinformed audience if they use ‘snus’. I’ll be coming back to this study in due course as that’s not the only error I can see… The complete study can be found here.

Clarifying the Distinctions: Snus, Nicotine Pouches, and Chew Bags

There’s been significant confusion around the use of snus in the UK, largely stemming from misidentification and unclear definitions in media and academic research. This article aims to clarify what snus, nicotine pouches, and chew bags actually are, and address common misconceptions.

Snus: The Real Deal

Snus is a moist powder tobacco product that originates from Sweden. It is consumed by placing it under the upper lip, where it releases nicotine into the bloodstream without the need for spitting. Snus is illegal for sale in the UK and the rest of the European Union, with Sweden being the only exception under EU law. Given its restricted availability, genuine snus use in the UK is extremely rare.

Nicotine Pouches: A Legal Alternative

Nicotine pouches are often confused with snus, but they contain no tobacco. Instead, they are small bags filled with nicotine, flavourings, and plant-based fibres. These pouches are legal in the UK and the EU and marketed as a safer alternative to smoking and traditional smokeless tobacco products.

Chew Bags: The Major Culprit of Confusion

Chew bags contain actual tobacco and are designed to be chewed briefly before being placed between the lip and gum. They are often marketed as snus substitutes to circumvent EU regulations banning snus. The difference lies in the cut of the tobacco and the method of use—chew bags require chewing, while snus does not.

To be clear that’s 3 distinct product – 1 of which is not widely available in the United Kingdom.

Spotting the Differences

Snus vs. Chew Bags vs Nicotine Pouches

• Snus: Finely ground tobacco, placed under the lip, no chewing required.

• Chew Bags: Cut tobacco, chewed before placing under the lip.

• Nicotine Pouches: Zero tobacco, typically uses plant fibre instead. Placed under the lip with no chewing required.

Popular Misconceptions

In many instances, products sold or marketed as snus are actually chew bags. Brands like Siberia are often mislabeled as snus when sold in the EU, adding to consumer confusion. Picking on ‘Siberia’ a bit – it is marketed as ‘snus’ everywhere you look and is one of the most prominent ‘snus’ products available to the UK market – only problem is it’s not ‘snus’ – they’re chew bags – legal for sale in the UK and EU. It doesn’t take a huge deal of research to find this out.

Why The Confusion?

The confusion mainly comes from marketing – ‘snus’ is a recognised term and ‘chew bags’ is not. The EU bans snus sales outside Sweden but allows nicotine pouches for example, which are often seen as a safer alternative, though we don’t have all the long-term health data yet. Chew bags hardly get a mention.

Setting the Record Straight

Genuine Swedish snus is difficult to obtain in the UK due to strict regulations. Therefore, what is being used and discussed is most likely chew bags or, less commonly, nicotine pouches. By distinguishing these products clearly, we can correct the ongoing misconceptions and provide clearer information to the public.

If you’re hearing about snus use in the UK, it’s important to consider that it might actually be about chew bags or nicotine pouches. Let’s keep the facts straight and ensure we’re talking about the right products.