Snus is a moist oral tobacco product traditionally associated with Sweden. It is placed under the lip, but unlike modern nicotine pouches it contains tobacco. In the UK, oral tobacco products meeting the legal definition of snus cannot be supplied commercially. The word is often used informally for tobacco-free nicotine pouches, but the products are not the same.
Key facts
- Traditional snus contains tobacco.
- Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are a different product category.
- UK rules prohibit commercial supply of oral tobacco products covered by the snus definition.
Traditional snus
Traditional snus is an oral tobacco product placed under the lip. Its tobacco content is the defining difference from a tobacco-free nicotine pouch.
Why the wording is confusing
Some people use “snus” as a general search term for any pouch used under the lip. Product descriptions and legal information should use the precise term so the presence or absence of tobacco is clear.
Common misconception
A tobacco-free nicotine pouch may resemble snus in shape and placement, but that does not make it snus.
