What is snus?
Snus is an oral tobacco product. It comes in small, soft pouches containing moist tobacco. To use it, place it under the upper lip, against the gum. It should not be chewed or swallowed. The tobacco releases nicotine through the oral mucosa. A standard pouch of snus contains about 4 to 14 mg of nicotine.
What's the problem?
People who use or consume snus can develop a nicotine dependence, which is sometimes stronger than that caused by cigarettes. Regular use of snus can cause oral health problems, such as receding gums, irritation of the oral mucosa and tongue, and tooth decay. It is also associated with cardiovascular problems (stroke, cardiovascular disease linked to a lack of oxygen to the heart) as well as complications during childbirth. The risk of oral cancer varies depending on the product’s composition. For nicotine pouches, long-term data are still lacking to draw conclusions about their specific effects on oral health.
The amount of nicotine per pouch varies widely and can exceed 100 mg. In addition to being highly addictive, it affects brain function by reducing attention span and exacerbating anxiety and stress (especially during adolescence). These risks are heightened if multiple nicotine products are used at the same time.
Since no tobacco is burned, snus and pouches are certainly less harmful to the lungs than traditional cigarettes, but more harmful to the mouth. They perpetuate nicotine dependence and can serve as a gateway to the use of other tobacco products or nicotine products, particularly among young people who have never smoked. They also make it more difficult to achieve withdrawal for those who wish to stop smoking.
In addition, snus and nicotine pouches can be used even in places where smoking is prohibited, which makes it easier to use them frequently and perpetuates dependence.
The advertisement specifically targets young people
Advertising campaigns by the tobacco and nicotine industries contribute to the normalization of the use of these products. They convey the implicit message to young people that “using nicotine pouches or snus is commonplace.” In addition, they make extensive use of social media to attract young people’s attention, which increases their risk of starting to consume these products.
Good to Know
- In everyday language, the term “snus” is often used to refer to both products, even though they are different.
- Nicotine pouches are no less dangerous than snus. Even though they do not contain tobacco, their nicotine content is highly addictive and poses a high level of dependence and health risks. Nicotine pouches contain other substances (flavorings, preservatives, etc.) whose long-term effects are not yet known and may be harmful.
How many young people use drugs?
Snus use among young people has increased in recent years, particularly among girls. About 4% of 14-year-olds have used snus in the past 30 days, compared with 9% of 15-year-olds. About twice as many boys as girls have used snus (HBSC, 2022). No figures are available for nicotine pouches in this age group.
Among young people aged 15 to 19, 4% use snus at least occasionally, and 4% also use nicotine pouches with the same frequency (ESL, 2025).
Use of various tobacco products
at least once in the past 30 days,
among 15-year-olds
(in %; HBSC 2022)
What is the legal framework?
Unlike in the European Union, where it is banned almost everywhere, snus has been permitted for sale in Switzerland since 2019. However, it remains subject to the same restrictions as other tobacco products.
Under the Federal Act on Tobacco Products and Electronic Cigarettes (LPTab, in effect since October1, 2024), the supply of tobacco products (cigarettes, heat-not-burn tobacco products, electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes, snus, snuff, cigars, etc.) and nicotine products (electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches) to minors is prohibited. This prohibition applies to both vending machines and online stores: any violation is punishable by law. The minimum age for the sale of tobacco products and nicotine products is set at 18 years old throughout Switzerland. Every point of sale must display this prohibition in a visible and legible manner.
For more detailsIn short, what should you keep in mind?
- 1.Snus is an oral tobacco product that is placed between the lip and the gum. Nicotine pouches work in the same way, but do not contain tobacco.
- 2.Snus and nicotine pouches can cause cardiovascular problems. Snus, which contains tobacco, can also lead to oral health problems and poses a risk of oral cancer.
- 3.Their discreet nature and flavors make them particularly appealing to young people and make it easier to consume them in secret.
- 4.There is a notable gender difference in snus use: boys are about twice as likely to use snus as girls.
- 5.Unlike in the European Union, the sale of snus has been permitted in Switzerland since 2019. However, the supply to minors (whether through sale or free distribution) is prohibited.
How can we talk to young people about this?
Before discussing this with young people, it’s helpful to feel comfortable with the topic and have a few pointers to help get the conversation started. As parents, teachers, or youth professionals, you’ll find more information on how to talk to young people about this in the “Your Role” section.