What is Snus? The Ultimate Guide

Traditionally, snus is a moist tobacco pouch placed discreetly under the upper lip, where nicotine is absorbed without the need for smoke. While traditional snus is banned in many EU countries, the term “snus” has become widely used across Europe to describe modern nicotine pouches,  a tobacco-free alternative made with plant fibres and added nicotine. So what actually sets classic snus apart from today’s tobacco free snus products? Let’s take a closer look.

Snus originated from nasal snuff brought to Sweden in the 17th century, which gradually evolved into an oral tobacco product. By the 1800s, snus was firmly woven into Swedish culture, prized for its convenience and smokeless use. The real breakthrough arrived in the 1970s with the invention of portioned snus, small, pre-packed pouches that made the experience cleaner, more discreet, and much easier to enjoy on the go. This innovation paved the way for today’s modern tobacco free snus products and nicotine pouches, which still draw inspiration from Sweden’s time-honoured snus tradition while embracing fully contemporary, tobacco-free formulations.

Fun fact: Swedish snus was once so culturally important that in 1974 the Swedish government appointed a “Snus Commission” to study its role in society, a level of national focus few products ever receive!

Although they are used in a similar way, there are key differences:

1. Ingredients

• Traditional snus contains tobacco.
• Nicotine pouches contain nicotine but no tobacco leaf, making them a tobacco-free option.

2. Flavours

Traditional snus tends to stick to earthy, classic profiles.
Modern nicotine pouches offer a wide range, mint, berry, citrus, drink-inspired and more, allowing for a more tailored experience.

3. Strength Variety

Both types come in multiple strengths, but nicotine pouches often provide a clearer and more consistent range because they are manufactured with controlled nicotine levels.

There are a few reasons snus and nicotine pouches have grown worldwide:

• Discreet Use

No smoke, smell or visible vapour, most people won’t even notice you’re using it.

• Wide Flavour Selection

Modern pouches offer choices for every taste.

• Convenience

They’re easy to carry, require no accessories, and can be used almost anywhere.

• Tobacco-Free Options

For users who prefer tobacco free snus, nicotine pouches provide an alternative that suits modern lifestyles.

Using snus is simple:

You place a small pouch under your upper lip, where nicotine is absorbed. The pouch stays discreetly in place while you go about your day, then you remove and dispose of it afterward.

One of the biggest advantages of snus and nicotine pouches is their wide range of flavours. From classic tobacco-inspired blends to refreshing mint, fruity mixes, and even dessert-style options, there’s something for every taste. This variety lets you switch things up whenever you feel like it.

Here are the most popular flavour categories along with best selling options at Two Wombats!

Mint & Menthol

Clean, cooling, and refreshing, perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers a crisp, classic profile.

Top Selling & Highest Rated at Two Wombats:

• ZYN Cool Mint
• VELO Freezing Peppermint

Fruity

From berry to citrus to tropical blends, fruity pouches deliver a sweet, vibrant kick with loads of character.

Top Selling & Highest Rated at Two Wombats:

• ZYN Black Cherry
• KILLA Grape Ice

Coffee & Dessert

Smooth, rich, and indulgent, ideal for fans of comforting, café-style or sweet flavours.

Top Selling & Highest Rated at Two Wombats:

• On! Coffee
• Helwit Mocha

Unique, Tropical & Exotic

Looking for something different? These options offer your favourite exotic tastes along with bold twists like cola, chilli, or cocktail-inspired notes.

Top Selling & Highest Rated at Two Wombats:

• VELO Tropical Mango
• KILLA Banana Ice

Snus is also available in several formats and strength levels, giving users even more control over their experience. Most commonly you can choose from:

• Slim: The most common format, comfortable and discreet under the lip.
• Mini: Even smaller, designed for subtle, invisible use.

Some brands, like Siberia, experiment with unique pouch shapes so you can personalise your experience even further with shapes like Ultra Slim, Superslim, Long and Maxi.

Strengths typically range from mild to extra strong, allowing both beginners and experienced users to select a nicotine level that suits their preferences. This versatility makes snus and nicotine pouches highly adaptable to individual needs.

• Light (2–4 mg): Ideal for beginners or casual users.
  ➡️Try ZYN, Helwit & FUMi
  
• Medium (6–8 mg): Offers a balanced nicotine hit.
  ➡️ Try VELO, Nordic Spirit & Clew
  
• Strong (10-15 mg): For experienced users seeking a more intense experience.
  ➡️Try Rave, MYNT & V&YOU
  
• Extra Strong (15mg+): For hardcore pouch fans looking for maximum strength.
  ➡️Try Cuba, Iceberg & BAGZ

Rules vary depending on the country. Traditional snus is legal in Sweden and Norway but restricted in many EU member states. Tobacco free snus (nicotine pouches), however, is widely sold across Europe, including the UK, because it does not contain tobacco leaf.

Footballers are often associated with snus use, not because it enhances performance, but because of cultural trends, convenience, and the demands of the sport. Here are the most common reasons players report using it:

1. Stress Management

Professional football comes with intense pressure, games, media attention, contracts, and competition for places. Some players say they use snus or modern nicotine pouches to help them stay calm during high-stress moments, especially before or after matches.

2. No Impact on Lungs

Because snus and nicotine pouches are smokeless and don’t involve inhalation, they don’t affect breathing in the way smoking does. Footballers rely heavily on lung capacity, so many prefer smokeless nicotine products over cigarettes.

3. Discreet and Easy to Use

Snus or tobacco-free nicotine pouches are small, easy to hide, and can be used in stadiums, training facilities, or while traveling without attracting attention, smell, or vapour.

4. Mental Focus

Some players report feeling more alert or focused after using nicotine, although this varies from person to person and isn’t a proven performance enhancer.