The Best Snus Alternatives in the UK

Looking for the best snus alternatives in the UK? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re switching things up or hunting for something that fits your lifestyle better, finding a great alternative to snus shouldn’t feel like a hassle.

That’s where we come in.

At 88Vape, we know what matters—quality, variety, and products that deliver. We’ve got the best options to help you make the switch seamlessly without compromising on satisfaction, so let’s explore your perfect snus alternative.

What is snus?

Pronounced 'snoose', snus is a moist and smokeless tobacco product that comes in a pouch and goes under your upper lip, delivering a steady supply of tobacco without smoking.

It's a smokeless tobacco product, but it's different from chewing tobacco. While chewing tobacco goes straight into the mouth, snus comes in pouches that go under your lip and gum, where the nicotine is absorbed gradually.

While snus doesn't require lighting for use, it still carries many of the dangers associated with tobacco, leading many countries in Europe - including the UK - to ban it.

So, if you're looking for a legal alternative to snus, we've got some fantastic options.

The different types of snus pouches

There are two types of snus available: Swedish and American. Let's explore the key differences between both:

• Nicotine Content: Most Swedish forms of snus have high nicotine levels, which is beneficial for people who use strong tobacco products, but snus from the US is designed to cater for a wider audience and often contains less nicotine.
• Flavours: Swedish snus typically focuses on elevating tobacco flavours, with most brands offering subtle flavours that won't mask the tobacco taste. American snus might contain a variety of flavours and sweeteners to mask the tobacco taste.
• Portions: In general, American snus comes in a smaller container and is designed to offer a rapid nicotine hit, while Swedish snus is all about long-lasting relief. However, it depends on the brand as some Swedish companies use smaller pouches.
• Moisture Content: The moisture content in snus also plays a role in its longevity and taste. Swedish blends have more moisture, which preserve the flavours and last longer, while American blends are often drier and provide a rapid nicotine hit.
• Regulations: Sweden has to follow strict regulations set by the EU, which limits the amount of carcinogens and additives in snus. In contrast, US snus is regulated by the FDA, where the regulations on additives and flavourings aren't as strict.
• Cultural Differences: Snus comes from Sweden and it's integrated into the country's history. The USA has a range of popular tobacco products, including regular smoking tobacco and chewing tobacco.

Why is snus banned in the UK?

Many countries in Europe have strict bans on the use of snus and other oral tobacco products due to health concerns. The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) banned oral tobacco products like snus, for health and safety reasons - surprisingly, chewing tobacco isn't illegal.

Even though Sweden is a member of the European Union, they're exempt from the anti-snus laws because it's been an integral part of the country's culture since the 1800s. The UK officially left the EU, but hasn't changed its stance on snus post Brexit.

The health risks of snus

The main reason for banning snus is because of its potential health implications for users. While Sweden has lower smoking rates due high snus usage, it's not without risks.

Increased cancer risks

Snus still carries the same risks as smoking cigarettes, but its cancer risks are slightly lower. However, we also need to factor in the higher risks of pancreatic cancer in snus users (The Lancet).

While Swedish moist snus isn't associated with oral cancer, US snuff is drier and carries many of the hazards of chewing tobacco (PubMed). Other specialists suggest that snus can increase the risks of colorectal cancer, but there's no conclusive evidence to prove this.

Heart disease

While smokers continue to have the highest risks of heart attacks, tobacco usage could still increase the risks of heart disease. There's no conclusive evidence to link snus to heart attacks, but it depends on the brand you use and how many harmful chemicals it contains.

Diabetes

As you can see, much of the research on snus is subjective - apart from its increased risks of diabetes. Multiple studies have conclusively linked the two, with experts warning that one to two pots of snus daily increases type 2 diabetes risks by 70% (BBC).

Research also confirms that smokers who switch to snus won't decrease their risks of diabetes or reduce the symptoms.

Pregnancy complications

The harmful chemicals found in snus can also result in pregnancy complications. Research published by ERS confirmed that women who use snus during their pregnancy can experience premature deliveries, cleft malformations, stillbirths and neonatal apnoea (when the child's breathing stops).

Oral health issues

Using snus pouches can increase your chances of oral health issues, including bad breath, gingivitis, and long-term periodontal disease. While most of these conditions are treatable, they can cause a variety of complications.

The best snus alternatives

Now it's time to explore some of the best snus alternatives available. One of the best things you can do is quit smoking, as carbon monoxide and burning chemicals can increase the risks of cancer.

It doesn't mean that smokeless products are completely safe, but the following options are definitely safer alternatives to traditional smoking.

Nicotine pouches

Nicotine pouches are probably the best tobacco free snus alternatives you can find, as they'll deliver a satisfying nicotine hit, without exposing you to the risks of snus.

You use them in the same way, by placing a pouch under your lip and gum, then letting the nicotine slowly absorb, but there's none of the chemicals found in traditional tobacco products.

The best thing about tobacco free nicotine pouches, is they come in various flavours and strengths. For example, the 88Vape Nicotine Pouches are available in strengths ranging from 6mg to 18mg, making them ideal if you want to gradually cut down your intake.

Pros:

• Nicotine pouches are completely tobacco free so they don't contain harmful chemicals.

• Choose between a variety of flavours, including Cool Mint, Mixed Berries, Spearmint and Citrus - with each offering authenticity, instead of an overly sweet fake taste.

• Nicotine pouches provide a consistent and steady supply of nicotine.

Cons:

• Nicotine is still a highly addictive substance.

• While pouches don't contain tobacco, they could still lead to bad breath and minor oral issues.

Vaping products

Vaping is up to 95% safer than cigarette smoke, making it a healthier way to fulfil your nicotine consumption needs. The battery-powered devices heat vape juices to produce a vapour, which is much safer than the smoke produced by cigarettes.

While vape pens aren't classed as smokeless tobacco, they're a popular substitute for traditional smoking and can be excellent alternatives to snus.

You can buy affordable vape pens, which replicate the traditional smoking experience and vape juices that come in a variety of strengths and flavours.

Pros:

• Vaping is proven to be a much healthier alternative to smoking

• You can enjoy a variety of e-liquid flavours, including tobacco, fruit, menthol, desserts, and many more.

• Vaping keeps nicotine cravings at bay and can help you gradually reduce your intake.

Cons:

• Some people say that vaping encourages people to start smoking, but many adult smokers make a successful transition from smoking cigarettes to vaping.

• Excessive vaping can cause lung reactions and choosing e-liquids that aren't regulated might put your health at risk.

Herbal snus

Herbal snus is another popular option for people who want to say goodbye to nicotine. It mimics the sensations created by traditional snus products, but uses natural ingredients. The pouches still go under the lip and the herbs are absorbed gradually.

Many people use herbal snus to reduce their oral cravings and move away from tobacco products. You'll find a variety of blends available, including pouches that contain caffeine and energising herbs, while others offer a more calming experience.

Overall, herbal snus offers plenty of benefits, but it's important to remember that it can't support nicotine cravings.

Pros:

• It's non-addictive and doesn't carry the health risks associated with tobacco products.

• You can satisfy your oral cravings without using nicotine.

• Many people find the flavours to be relaxing.

Cons:

• Using herbal snus long term can still cause oral health issues.

• Some people might find the taste of herbal snus too overpowering.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Nicotine Replacement Therapy aims to help people satisfy their nicotine cravings and move away from smoking. While some people find that NRT reduces their need to use traditional snus or smoke cigarettes, others might require more support.

The types of products you can use include nicotine gum, lozenges, patches and inhalers, with each offering unique benefits.

Starting on a higher nicotine strength and gradually reducing it can help you successfully quit smoking and using smokeless tobacco products, but the University of Oxford published research that estimates just 12 out of 100 people using a combination of two NRT products will quit tobacco successfully.

When compared to vaping, NRT products have lower success rates (Healio).

Pros:

• You can choose between a variety of products and double up for more success.

• NRT can satisfy your nicotine needs, making it easier to quit smoking or using tobacco products.

Cons:

• Long-term usage of NRT products can have high costs.

• Other methods, including vaping and nicotine pouches offer higher success rates.

Choosing the right snus alternative for your needs

When choosing a suitable snus alternative, you'll need to think about your needs and personal preferences. To make the comparison easier, we've put a table together:

The bottom line

Snus will continue to be a popular solution in Sweden and the USA, but its potential health implications are something other countries in Europe aren't willing to ignore. While snus offers some benefits, opting for nicotine pouches is the safest way to replicate the experience without using tobacco.

If you'd like to stock up on nicotine pouches, 88Vape has some fantastic deals. At £2.50 for a pack of 20 nicotine pouches, you can save money without compromising quality.

We also offer free UK delivery over £15, so fill up your basket with delicious flavours today and enjoy the convenience of shopping with us.

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