What Is SNUS from Tobacco? The Shocking Truth About Nicotine Pouches Taking Over Europe
- Jun 4, 2025
- 2 min read
SNUS: A Dangerous Trend or a Safer Alternative?
In recent years, SNUS — small pouches filled with moist tobacco — have become increasingly popular among both youth and adults across Europe, including Romania. Originally from Sweden, the product is often marketed as a "safer alternative" to smoking. But how true is that?
SNUS is not smoked. It’s placed between the gum and upper lip, releasing nicotine gradually. However, the lack of smoke does not mean the absence of health risks. Many consumers think SNUS is harmless, but the truth is far more complex.
Shocking Facts About SNUS
SNUS is banned in the European Union, except in Sweden, which obtained a special exemption. Despite this, SNUS is widely accessible online and on the grey market, including in Romania.
It contains more nicotine than a regular cigarette. A single SNUS pouch can contain between 8 to 43 mg of nicotine, while a cigarette typically contains around 1 mg.
It doesn’t burn, but it can still “burn” your mouth — figuratively. Users often report gum recession, tooth discoloration, and mucosal irritation.
SNUS has been linked to a higher risk of oral cancer, though the risk is lower than with traditional smoking.
What Experts and Users Say
Medical Opinion
Dr. Marius Andrei, dentist in Bucharest:
“SNUS isn’t risk-free. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, and direct exposure to gums can lead to tissue necrosis. It may not affect the lungs, but it seriously harms oral and cardiovascular health.”
User Experiences
Andrei, 24, SNUS user:
“I switched from cigarettes to SNUS because it seemed more convenient. But after a few months, I felt gum pain and tooth sensitivity. It’s a double-edged sword.”
Ioana, 19:
“It’s trendy among my classmates. SNUS seems cooler than smoking. But I admit, it’s more addictive.”
SNUS vs. Cigarettes: Which Is Worse?
Characteristic | SNUS | Traditional Cigarettes |
Nicotine | High (8–43 mg) | Low (1–2 mg) |
Secondhand smoke | None | Present |
Lung cancer risk | Very low | Very high |
Oral cancer risk | Moderate | Moderate to high |
Accessibility | Online, illegal in EU | Legal, regulated |
Addictiveness | Very high | High |
The Legal Status of SNUS in Romania
In Romania, selling SNUS is officially banned, but weak enforcement makes it easy to buy online or through informal sources. This raises serious concerns about public health and legal oversight.
Conclusion: Știrinoi.com’s Verdict
SNUS is not a harmless product. Even though it doesn’t produce smoke, its effects on oral health, cardiovascular systems, and addiction are serious. Its rising popularity among youth is a red flag.
Știrinoi.com warns: not everything trendy is safe. SNUS is a modern habit with long-term destructive potential. Stay informed — don’t be influenced.
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