6 Tips for Swapping Snus for Nicotine Pouches

The rapid growth of nicotine pouches over the last few years has been largely driven by those seeking out a tobacco-free option. Nicotine pouches share a lot of similarities with portion snus, as both come in the form of sachets and are placed under the upper lip, where they diffuse nicotine and flavour.

Yet there are also some significant differences between the two products, which can be off putting for those who are trying to make the switch. Below are six tips for a smoother transition.

1. Choose a Comparable Strength

When swapping one nicotine product for another, matching the nicotine strength is crucial.

For those used to consuming portion snus, this is simple enough. Users can simply check the amount of nicotine each portion contains and match it with the dosage of their favourite snus product for a comparable experience.

On Snusdirect, we prominently display the amount of nicotine per pouch or sachet, so pay attention to this over brand strength ratings or mg/g for a more direct comparison.

It may be more difficult to figure out which strength to start with for those who are used to consuming loose snus, as it is down to the user to create their portion. In this case, it may be best to choose a low-strength pouch first and slowly graduate to higher strengths until satisfied.

However, nicotine strength itself isn’t the only thing that determines the potency of a pouch experience. There’s also the moisture level to consider, as we’ll discuss in tip number four.

2. Start with a Classic Flavour

Snus became popular thanks to its tobacco-centric formulations. This results in a dark and bitter taste profile in some cases, while other snus products have floral or citrus hints.

Nicotine pouches are known for sporting a wide variety of flavours, including fruity, minty, and coffee-flavoured options. For many fans, this is one of the most exciting things about them — but long-time snus users may prefer to start with a flavour profile more similar to what they’re used to.

To some snus-ers, the less natural flavours of nicotine pouches can taste too artificial. Fortunately, although all nicotine pouches are tobacco-free, many use other ingredients to mimic the tobacco flavour.

For instance, Lundgrens Mörk All White has a dark, earthy taste profile.

3. Opt for a Full-Bodied Size

Traditionally, snus comes in large portions, providing an immersive and full-bodied experience.

Meanwhile, the most popular nicotine pouch size is the slim format. This thinner shape results in a less messy and more comfortable experience, and may make it easier for users to consume pouches in public.

However, there are various nicotine pouch sizes to choose between, including large. For instance, Siberia -80 All White Maxi boasts plump portions that weigh 1.5 grams each (compared to the usual 0.8 to 1 g weight).

4. Consider Moisture Level

As touched on earlier, the amount of nicotine isn’t the only factor that determines strength. When pouches or snus portions are more moist, they release nicotine and flavour faster, resulting in more of an immediate “kick.”

The most traditional snus production processes result in a high moisture content since ground tobacco is mixed with water (along with other ingredients) and there’s no fermentation. Also, tobacco leaves naturally retain moisture.

Nicotine pouches don’t contain tobacco, instead using less moist, plant-based fibres. This makes them naturally drier. Plus, many manufacturers use drying techniques to reduce moisture further.

Despite this, some nicotine pouches are made to be more moist, which can be a good option for those who are used to snus. This is the case with FIX nicotine pouches, such as FIX Watermelon Ice.

However, those who typically stick to white snus portions may prefer to stick to dry nicotine pouches for a more similar experience.

5. Prepare for a Different Experience

Since traditional snus has a high moisture content, it often has a “wet” feel in the hands and mouth and causes “dripping” — when excess moisture drips into the mouth or down the throat.

This isn’t an issue with typical nicotine pouches, most of which are dry and slim (although some more moist pouches may cause a small amount of dripping).

Since nicotine pouches don’t contain tobacco, they also won’t cause stains or odours. This can make it more convenient to use “on-the-go.”

As a result, the pouch experience can be quite different, so snus-ers may want to rethink their current routine when making the switch.

However, those who consume white portions may not find the difference as considerable.

6. Enjoy the Easier Storage

One of the factors of nicotine pouch usage that most snus users can easily adjust to is the longer shelf life.

Nicotine pouches expire roughly two years after production.

Meanwhile, snus usually has a shorter shelf life, of 20-30 weeks after production. This is primarily due to the presence of tobacco, which is a fresh ingredient.

The exact best before date and expiration date will appear on each can.

Also, snus must be refrigerated to keep it refreshed, while nicotine pouches can be stored anywhere dry and out of sunlight (such as a cupboard). While some users may decide to store their pouches in the fridge or even freezer to maximise usage or because they enjoy the cool sensation, it’s rarely necessary.