Heysnus is a smokeless tobacco product that is primarily used in Sweden. It consists of moist tobacco that is placed between the upper lip and gums. The nicotine is released into the bloodstream through the mucous membrane and reaches the brain within a few minutes. It is a very popular alternative to smoking and has helped many people quit smoking altogether.
The tobacco used in snus is air-dried rather than fire-cured as in cigarettes and chewing tobacco, which reduces the levels of tobacco-specific chemicals called nitrosamines. This reduces the risk of stomach upset, and it also means that you don’t need to spit when using snus, as you would with other types of tobacco products. The snus is then steam-pasteurized in the same way as milk, which further reduces the amount of nitrosamines present.
Snus Around the World: Regional Variations and Traditions
There are several different brands of snus, and each has its unique flavor. Most of these flavors are mint-based, but you can also find fruity and even herbal varieties. The most popular brand of snus is General Snus, which has been manufactured by Swedish Match since 1866.
A number of epidemiological studies indicate that snus is less harmful than cigarette smoking, with an overall risk reduction of 90% for lung cancer, 50% for cardiovascular disease, and 50% or more for oral, pharyngeal and oesophageal cancer compared to smoking. Dual users of snus and cigarette smoking tend to consume fewer cigarettes per day than single cigarette smokers, and this may explain why they experience reduced health risks.