All the most important questions about nicotine in snus answered

With the oral tobacco product Snus, a distinction is made between the nicotine content and the perceived strength, as the latter depends on several factors. In the past, Snus cans clearly indicated how much nicotine they contained. However, after a change in the law, this is no longer the case, and manufacturers are required to indicate the strength but not the exact nicotine content on the packaging.

In our article, we want to answer the most important questions about Snus nicotine strength and also introduce you to some products and their nicotine content.

How are Snus varieties classified?

On the cans of Snus products, whether loose or in pouches, you will initially only find the description ‘normal, strong, very strong, and extremely strong.’ According to this description, Snus is classified as follows:

• 0 to 9 mg/g nicotine = Normal Snus
• 10 to 20 mg/g nicotine = Strong Snus
• 20 to 30 mg/g nicotine = Very Strong Snus
• Over 30 mg/g nicotine = Extremely Strong Snus

Additionally, there are varieties such as edelsnus CBD Mint, which are completely nicotine-free. These are suitable not only for smokers planning to quit smoking. Anyone interested in the exact nicotine content of a Snus variety can check this on the product page under properties. On our website, the amount is always given in mg of nicotine per gram of content.

How does nicotine get into Snus?

The tobacco plant contains nicotine as an ingredient, so all products with tobacco contain nicotine. The nicotine content of the plant varies depending on the variety; commercial varieties contain about 0.5 to 3%, while others can have more than 8% nicotine. Furthermore, not only the variety matters but also weather conditions, fertilization, and plant density.

For the production of Snus, the tobacco is ground and mixed with water, salt, and flavors. It is then packed loose in cans or in cellulose pouches. When used, the pouch is placed under the upper lip, and the nicotine exerts its effect through the mucous membranes of the mouth.

All White Snus products do contain nicotine but are completely tobacco-free. During production, nicotine is extracted from the tobacco plant and then added to the product either in liquid form or as nicotine salt. This has the advantage that the Snus does not drip during use and does not stain the teeth. The All White product VELO Mighty Peppermint AW, for example, has a nicotine content of 15.6 mg/g.

Snus Nicotine vs. Cigarettes

You will often hear that Snus has a higher nicotine content than cigarettes. However, this cannot be answered so generally. The nicotine content of Snus varies by variety and can even be nicotine-free. A cigarette contains 12 mg of nicotine, and when smoked, 1 to 3 mg of it is absorbed.

Strong Snus varieties have a nicotine content of over 30 mg/g, but not all of the nicotine is absorbed by the body. The amount that enters the body is about 10 to 20%.

Snus Nicotine Content vs. Perceived Strength

The actual strength of Snus depends not only on nicotine but also on moisture, pH value, and flavor. Moist Snus drips more and reaches the brain faster. However, the effect does not last as long as with dry Snus. Additionally, flavors like mint can increase the perceived strength and provide an extra freshness kick. The pH value indicates how much nicotine can be absorbed by the body. The higher the value, the more is absorbed.

What are the strongest Snus varieties?

Among the strongest Snus varieties is Siberia. Siberia Red -80 Degrees, for example, has a nicotine content of 43 mg/g. This variety is only suitable for experienced Snus users and should not be tried by beginners.