From what age is snus allowed?

The popularity of snus has risen sharply in recent years, with more and more people switching from cigarettes to the smoke-free alternative. However, youth consumption has also increased, which could lead to changes in European laws in the future. In this article, we clarify from what age snus may be used and how these products differ from other tobacco goods.

What is snus?

Snus originates from Scandinavia and is traditionally made from ground tobacco leaves, salt, water, and various flavorings. You can buy it loose or in small pouches that are placed under the upper lip during use. The ingredients are absorbed through the mucous membranes into the bloodstream and reach the brain. Nicotine triggers various reactions in the body, providing relaxation and temporarily enhancing concentration. In addition to tobacco-based snus, there is now a tobacco-free version containing varying amounts of nicotine. These are usually called Nicotine Pouches or white snus.

Snus is often touted as the perfect alternative to cigarettes. Indeed, cigarettes contain more toxins than snus and must be burned, producing harmful substances like carbon monoxide and tar. Snus and Nicotine Pouches are not ignited and place less strain on your lungs. However, some products contain high nicotine levels, which can have health implications. Moreover, nicotine is an addictive substance that should be used with caution.

How is snus used?

Snus is sold in small metal tins containing varying numbers of pouches. The lid indicates the nicotine content and strength. You can purchase snus in mild versions with about 3 to 6 mg/g nicotine, up to extremely strong versions with more than 35 mg/g. To use, simply remove a pouch from the tin and place it at the side under your upper lip. With loose snus, you portion it with your fingertips first. Unlike chewing tobacco, snus is not chewed; it is activated only by saliva. How long you keep it in your mouth depends on personal preference. For your first time, choose a mild version, as your body needs time to adjust to the nicotine’s effects.

From what age is snus allowed?

The legal situation for snus and Nicotine Pouches remains somewhat complex. Within the EU, the sale of snus is banned, except in Sweden, where commercial trade is permitted as the origin country. In Switzerland, both consumption and sale have been legalized after the Federal Court deemed the health risks less severe than other tobacco products. Purchase of snus, like cigarettes, requires a minimum age of 18. Nicotine Pouches without tobacco are not currently covered by the Non-Smoker Protection Act, since they are neither burned nor heated as with vapes. However, with rising youth use, a law change is likely soon.

Conclusion

Snus is a nicotine-containing product made from tobacco leaves, originally from Scandinavia. It is available loose or in small pouches and, unlike cigarettes, does not require burning—making it less harmful. Snus is placed under the upper lip to release its effects and comes in various nicotine strengths. Commercial sale of snus remains prohibited in the EU except for Sweden; in Switzerland, it is available both online and in stores. As with all nicotine products, the minimum purchase and consumption age is 18.