Loose leaf tobacco is a form of smokeless tobacco, characterized by shredded, cured tobacco leaves that are often sweetened with ingredients like molasses. This product contains nicotine, which is highly addictive. The use of any smokeless tobacco product carries significant health risks, including a heightened risk for oral cancer, which often manifests as precancerous white patches known as leukoplakia. Loose leaf tobacco also exposes the user to tobacco-specific nitrosamines and over 25 other known carcinogens, contributing to the risk of head, neck, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers.
Selecting and Preparing Loose Leaf Tobacco
The first step involves forming the “quid,” or “chaw,” which is the manageable wad of tobacco placed in the mouth. Loose leaf is usually sold in pouches and consists of long, ribbon-cut strands. To begin, a portion of the tobacco must be pinched and firmly consolidated with the fingers to create a compact mass. This process ensures the tobacco holds together and prevents individual strands from scattering or being swallowed.
The tobacco’s moisture level is important; the leaves should be pliable and slightly sticky, often due to added sweeteners, but never dripping wet. Rolling or folding the selected amount into a dense cylinder or ball makes it easier to place and hold comfortably against the cheek. Starting with a smaller amount allows the user to gauge the nicotine delivery and manage the initial saliva production.
Step-by-Step Chewing Technique
Once the quid is prepared, it is placed into the mouth, typically settled between the cheek and the lower gum line. This positioning allows the nicotine to be absorbed through the mucosal tissue lining the mouth. The process involves a gentle “chewing” or “squeezing” motion applied periodically, not continuous, vigorous chewing. Applying light pressure on the quid releases the tobacco juices, which contain the flavor and nicotine.
This gentle movement can be done whenever the flavor begins to diminish to maintain the nicotine release. The tobacco’s interaction with saliva is immediate and copious, resulting in a large volume of excess fluid that must be managed. The accumulating juices must be expelled, which is why the practice is nicknamed “spit tobacco.”
Swallowing the tobacco-saturated saliva is highly discouraged because it contains concentrated nicotine and toxic chemicals. Ingesting these juices can lead to nausea, stomach irritation, and potential nicotine overdose. A designated receptacle, often called a spittoon, is necessary for hygienic and safe use. Spitting should be done whenever the mouth begins to feel full of the dark brown juice.
Finishing the Chew and Safe Disposal
The chewing session is concluded when the flavor and the desired effect begin to diminish, which typically occurs after 20 to 30 minutes. The spent quid should be carefully removed from the mouth using fingers. Ensure no loose strands or fragments of tobacco remain lodged in the gums or teeth.
The discarded quid is considered tobacco waste and should be wrapped or placed into a non-permeable container before disposal. The contents of the spittoon, consisting of the tobacco juices and saliva, must also be disposed of safely. It is prudent to seal all waste to prevent accidental exposure to pets or children. Finally, rinsing the mouth thoroughly with water helps remove any residual tobacco particles or juices, improving oral hygiene.