Core Differences
The primary distinction between these products lies in their composition:
- Nicotine pouches: Tobacco-free, containing synthetic nicotine or nicotine extracted from tobacco
- Snus: Contains actual tobacco leaves as its base ingredient
Chemical Properties
pH Levels and Nicotine Release
- Nicotine pouches typically have higher pH (8.0-9.0) for faster absorption
- Snus maintains moderate pH (7.5-8.5) for gradual nicotine release
TSNA Content
Tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) are present in snus but absent in nicotine pouches:
- Snus contains 2.8-8.0 μg/g TSNAs
- Nicotine pouches show 0.0 μg/g TSNAs in laboratory tests
Usage Experience
Physical Characteristics
- Nicotine pouches:
- Weight: 0.5-1.0 grams per pouch
- Texture: Dry to moist
- Size: Slim profile (typically 18-22mm long)
- Snus:
- Weight: 0.8-1.2 grams per portion
- Texture: Moist to wet
- Size: Standard or large formats available
Duration of Effects
- Nicotine pouches: Active effects last 15-30 minutes
- Snus: Effects persist for 45-60 minutes
Storage and Shelf Life
Storage requirements differ significantly between products:
- Nicotine pouches:
- Room temperature: 12 months
- Refrigerated: 18 months
- Frozen: Up to 2 years
- Snus:
- Room temperature: 4-6 weeks
- Refrigerated: 12 months
- Frozen: 12-18 months
User Considerations
- Nicotine pouches offer wider flavor variety (typically 8-12 options per brand)
- Snus provides traditional tobacco flavor profiles (usually 3-5 variants)
- Pouches cause minimal tooth staining
- Snus may cause tooth discoloration with prolonged use