Snus is a smokeless, moist tobacco product originating primarily in Sweden. Users place the product under the upper lip, where it delivers nicotine without requiring combustion or spitting. This method of consumption differs significantly from traditional cigarettes and other smokeless tobacco forms. This article explains the composition of snus, details how it affects the body, and outlines the immediate and long-term health consequences of its use.
Defining Snus and Its Composition
Snus is a finely ground, air-cured tobacco product, unique among smokeless tobaccos due to its processing method. It is sold either as loose, moist tobacco or in small, tea-bag-like pouches, known as portion snus, placed between the gum and the upper lip. Key ingredients include ground tobacco leaves, water, salt, and food-grade flavorings.
A defining characteristic is its manufacturing process, which involves steam-pasteurization rather than fermentation. This heat treatment significantly reduces harmful substances, specifically tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), compared to other fermented smokeless tobacco products. Manufacturers also add an alkalizer, such as sodium carbonate, to the mixture to adjust the product’s pH level, which is crucial for nicotine delivery.
How Nicotine is Absorbed by the Body
Snus delivers nicotine via direct absorption through the soft tissues of the mouth. When placed under the lip, nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa, the moist lining of the mouth. This contrasts with smoking, where nicotine is absorbed through the lungs, or traditional chewing tobacco, where some nicotine is absorbed via swallowed saliva.
The high pH level created by the alkalizing agent drives the efficient delivery of nicotine into the bloodstream. Nicotine exists in two forms: protonated and unprotonated (or free-base). Only the free-base form can readily pass through the cell membranes of the oral mucosa. A higher pH shifts the chemical balance, increasing the proportion of free-base nicotine, allowing for faster and more substantial absorption. This quick absorption rate contributes significantly to the product’s addictive potential.
Immediate Physical and Mental Effects
Once free-base nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa, it rapidly enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain. Nicotine acts as a stimulant, triggering the release of adrenaline from the adrenal glands. This influx of adrenaline causes immediate physical responses, including a temporary increase in both heart rate and blood pressure.
The mental effects are mediated by the central nervous system. Nicotine interacts with receptors in the brain, leading to the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine. This dopamine release activates the brain’s reward pathways, creating a temporary sensation of alertness, focus, and concentration. Nicotine has a biphasic effect, meaning the initial stimulant phase can be followed by relaxation. However, new users or those consuming high-strength products may experience side effects like dizziness, nausea, or headache due to the intense dose.
Long-Term Health Consequences
Prolonged use of snus carries several long-term health consequences, the most prominent being nicotine dependence. Nicotine is highly addictive, and the efficient absorption method ensures a steady, high cumulative intake, fostering dependency.
The chronic presence of the tobacco product against the gum can cause localized oral health issues. This commonly manifests as gum irritation, discomfort, and gum recession where the pouch is consistently placed. Users may also develop leukoplakia, a non-malignant oral lesion appearing as white patches on the soft tissue of the mouth. While these lesions are generally reversible upon cessation, they represent a chronic change to the oral mucosa.
Regarding systemic effects, the chronic elevation of heart rate and blood pressure due to nicotine is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Furthermore, while snus has a lower cancer risk profile than smoking, studies suggest its use probably increases the risk for certain cancers, including those of the esophagus and pancreas.