Snus Guide : Do you Spit Snus?

“Do you spit snus?” is a question often asked by those new to the world of smokeless tobacco. Unlike many other forms of oral smokeless tobacco, snus uniquely does not necessitate spitting. Let’s delve into the reasons why snus stands apart, allowing you to enjoy it without the need for spitting.

What is Snus?

In this article, we will explore in more detail what makes snus spit-free and the benefits and potential health risks of using snus as a spit-free alternative to smoking.

Well, to begin, snus, unlike other forms of smokeless tobacco like chewing tobacco or snuff, does not undergo fermentation and therefore doesn’t sit at room temperature until maturation. Instead, we cure snus, which involves drying and salting. We initially air or sun dry the tobacco leaves. Following this, we mix them with salt, water, and flavorings and then pasteurize them. This process means we heat the tobacco mixture and then grind it into a fine, intermediate, or coarse powder.

The result of the snus production process is a moist powder tobacco that is typically placed under the upper lip and does not require spitting or chewing, unlike other forms of tobacco. 

This unique characteristic has made it a popular alternative to smoking in many parts of the world. Snus has a rustic, bold tobacco flavor and can be used anywhere anytime.

Snus is a very discrete smokeless tobacco alternative for two reasons:

1. It does not require any lighting up and does not emit any vapors or smoke. 
2. It does not require any chewing or spitting.

Do you Spit Snus?

“Do you spit snus?” is a common question, and the answer lies in snus’s unique production process. Snus’s spit-free characteristic can be traced back to the curing of tobacco leaves, which are then mixed with water, salt, and flavorings to create a moist powder. This process enables gradual moisture release from snus, eliminating the need to spit.

This moist texture of snus facilitates slow flavor and nicotine release, allowing users to relish the snus experience sans any spitting or chewing.

Moreover, the typically smaller portion sizes of snus compared to other smokeless tobacco forms further contribute to its spit-free nature. With less juices produced, the need to spit is significantly reduced.

Benefits of Snus as a Spit-Free Alternative to Smoking

Using snus as a spit-free alternative to smoking offers a number of benefits:

1. There is no risk of secondhand smoke, making it a safer alternative for those around the user. 
2. There is no need for spitting or chewing, making it a more convenient option in public places. 
3. Snus is believed to be less harmful than smoking and is used by many as a substitute for cigarettes or other forms of tobacco.

Comparison with Other Smokeless Tobacco Products

Snus is just one of many types of smokeless tobacco products available on the market.

Compared to chewing tobacco, snus is easier to use and does not require spitting. Compared to

snuff, snus is typically moist and does not need to be inhaled through the nose. Snus is also

considered to be less harmful than other types of smokeless tobacco products.

How to Use Snus 

There are two types of snus products: loose snus and portion snus. 

Loose snus

You use a tool or your fingers to place loose snus, a loose powder, under your lip. In Swedish, the amount of snus actually positioned under the lip is referred to as a “prilla”, meaning a snus portion.  A snus portion typically weighs about one gram, whether you take it loose or buy ready-to-use pre-packed portions.

Portion snus

On the other hand, you can place portion snus, which comes pre-portioned in small packets, directly under the lip. To use snus, simply place it under the upper lip, either in the center or off to one side. The user can leave it in for as little as 30 minutes or as long as several hours.  Snus portions can be original, white or white dry.  Manufacturers tightly weave the white and white dry portion pouches to release juices at a slower pace, extending the snus experience beyond the expected length with an original portion, which closely resembles a loose snus in portion format. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, snus is a unique type of smokeless tobacco that is spit-free. It offers a number of

benefits as a spit-free alternative to smoking, including convenience and reduced risk of

secondhand smoke. However, it also carries potential health risks, particularly in regards to oral

health and nicotine dependence.  As with any tobacco product, it is important to be aware of these risks and to use snus responsibly.