In recent years, snus has emerged as a compelling alternative to smoking tobacco products. Anyone who has ever tried quitting the habit can attest to how difficult it is to drop. Remember the millions of people who took up e-cigarettes to help stop or cut different smoking? Although an e-cigarette is an effective alternative to smoking, they aren’t suitable for all smokers. Thus the advent of snus, a harmful reduction method of consuming tobacco.
Snus has its origin in 18th century Sweden. Production was inspired by snuff, a smokeless derivative of tobacco that is inhaled via the nasal cavity. Technological advancements have exceptionally motivated research endeavors in the health and wellness sector. Stakeholders in healthcare invest funds and efforts to bring about the wide availability of safer nicotine products as alternatives to smoking.
Before we delve deeper into this product’s legal status within UK boundaries, let us first look at what it is. We will also highlight a viable alternative you can possess and consume. Read on to find out more.
What Is Snus?
Snus is a derivative of the tobacco plant available in the form of a miniature-sized white pouch containing ground-up moistened tobacco. It is available in multiple flavors and is infused with organic compounds to enhance absorption.
Snus is ingested via sublabial administration, where one places the small sachet between the inner lip and the gum. The active ingredient is absorbed through mucous membranes in this region. One gets to enjoy a nicotine-buzz without the detrimental effects of smoking.
Is Snus Legal In The UK?
The legality of snus is somewhat confusing. Although it is not illegal to own or use, it is banned all over the United Kingdom. The same can also be observed in countless other countries in the EU. And even after Brexit, the UK legislative body is yet to revise these restrictions. This grey area still exists: one still cannot sell or buy snus, but it is not illegal to have it in your possession.
Manufacturers of chewable tobacco from the US tried to introduce snus into the UK market during the 90s. Mixed reactions towards the alternative to smoking led to angry responses from health authorities and campaigners, giving rise to the existing restrictive measures against possession and consumption of snus.
The ban is being challenged by several authoritative bodies such as the NNA (New Nicotine Alliance). The basis of their contention is that snus should be legalized for public use because it fits the criteria of a harm reduction product. They use anecdotal evidence from Sweden to prove the efficacy of snus in reducing the number of smokers nationwide. The battle still rages on.
Viable Alternative: The Nicotine Pouch
But as we wait for a turn in events, several innovators like https://blackbuffalo.com/ have come up with a nicotine-free innovation that closely resembles the experience and functionality of snus. And the good news is, nicotine pouches are legal to ship, sell, and use in the UK.
Final Take
The use of snus continues to grow in prevalence among people looking for a less harmful alternative to smoking. More people are taking up snus as an alternative to smoking, chewing, snuffing, vamping, and e-cigarettes. Let us know your experience with smokeless tobacco products in the comments below.