What is tobacco?
Snuff/ nasal tobacco is an ancient form of tobacco—a fine, dry, brown powder—that is consumed through the nose. It is sold in small metal tins. This tobacco powder is often flavored (with mint, cinnamon, etc.). When inhaled through the nostrils (“sniffed”), it directly exposes the nasal mucosa to nicotine.
What's the problem?
This tobacco product causes the same nicotine dependence as smoked tobacco and contains carcinogens. Regular use may cause irritation of the nasal mucous membranes, nasal congestion, and a diminished sense of smell, although scientific data specific to this product remain limited. Like any tobacco product, it poses health risks, including cancer; it also perpetuates nicotine dependence and is not an aid to quitting smoking. In adolescents, nicotine can also impair attention span, learning ability, and emotional regulation.
Smokeless tobacco is sometimes portrayed as less harmful than cigarettes; however, it can serve as a gateway to using tobacco in other forms.
How many young people use drugs?
7% of 14-year-olds and 10% of 15-year-olds have used it at least once in the past 30 days (HBSC, 2022). Its use is more common among boys than among girls.
Among 15- to 19-year-olds, 7% use it at least occasionally and less than 1% use it daily; it should be noted that, within this age group, use also appears to be more prevalent among young men (ESL, 2025). Use therefore remains limited to a minority in this age group.
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?
Under the Federal Act on Tobacco Products and Electronic Cigarettes (LPTab, in effect since October1, 2024), the supply of tobacco products (cigarettes, heated tobacco products, snus, snuff, cigars, and cigarillos, etc.) and nicotine products (electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches) 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 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.Snuff/ nasal tobacco is a powdered form of tobacco that is inhaled through the nose; it causes nicotine dependence and contains carcinogens.
- 2.Regular use may cause irritation of the nasal mucous membranes, congestion, and a loss of smell.
- 3.Despite its image as a “less harmful” product, it can serve as a gateway to other forms of tobacco use.
- 4.In Switzerland, it is prohibited to supply (sell or provide free of charge) tobacco to persons under the age of 18.
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.