Many smokers are looking for alternatives. One of these is snus – a smoke-free variant from Scandinavia. If you are curious, you can go directly to Try snus at Snusladen. Snus and cigarettes are among the most well-known forms of nicotine consumption. Although both contain nicotine, they differ fundamentally in terms of use and health risks. Cigarettes have long been considered the main cause of serious diseases such as lung cancer and cardiovascular disease, while snus is particularly popular in Scandinavia. This article compares both products and shows whether snus is actually the safer choice.
A direct comparison is crucial, as many smokers are looking for ways to reduce the damage to their health. It is important to understand that the risks do not disappear, but merely shift. The public debate on addiction and regulation – particularly in Germany, where snus is banned but cigarettes are freely sold – highlights the need for well-founded information.
What is snus?
Snus is a smoke-free tobacco product from Sweden. It is not burned, but placed under the upper lip as a small pouch or loose portion. The nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa without producing smoke or tar. Made from tobacco, water, salt and flavourings, snus is particularly known for its discreet application known. As it produces neither smoke nor odour, it can be used almost anywhere. Nevertheless, snus remains a nicotine product that make dependent can and risks such as gum problems or cardiovascular strain. If you are unsure, you should seek information., how to use snus correctly, to avoid side effects.
What are cigarettes?
Cigarettes are tobacco products that are rolled in paper and burned. When the smoke is inhaled, nicotine and hundreds of other substances enter the lungs and quickly enter the bloodstream. Nicotine has a rapid effect, which high potential for dependency explains. In addition to nicotine, cigarettes contain numerous pollutants such as tar and carbon monoxide, which are produced during combustion and are considered the main cause of serious illnesses. Millions of people worldwide die from the consequences of smoking, which is why cigarettes are considered one of the greatest preventable health risks. A direct comparison shows: Snus is considered less harmful, However, it is by no means risk-free.
How do the application and ingredients differ?
The main difference lies in the form of consumption:
- Snus: Placed under the upper lip, nicotine is absorbed through the mucous membrane. This results in no smoke. Snus contains ground tobacco, water, salt and flavourings. Modern nicotine pouches do not even contain any tobacco.
- Cigarettes: When smoked, nicotine is absorbed through the lungs. Burning produces Tar, carbon monoxide and heavy metals.
Nicotine intake and effects
Cigarettes deliver a quick nicotine kick that reaches the brain within seconds. Snus provides a slower but longer-lasting effect. Both methods affect the cardiovascular system and can be addictive. If you would like to learn more about the effects in detail, ...you can find more information in our article on Snus effects and the effects of nicotine.
Short-term effects
Smoking causes a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Snus causes a more controlled release of nicotine, but can cause dizziness or nausea.
Long-term health risks
The long-term effects differ significantly:
- Cigarettes: The greatest risk lies in the harmful combustion products. Smoking is the main cause of Lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and COPD.
- Snus: Since snus is not burned, there is no risk of lung disease. However, the main problem lies in its local application: snus can cause Gum recession, periodontitis and oral cancer even if the risk is lower than with cigarettes. More details on possible Snus consequences can be found in our guide.
risk of cancer
Cigarettes are clearly linked to a variety of cancers. In snus, it is primarily the tobacco-specific nitrosamines that increase the risk of mouth and throat cancer. Nevertheless, the cancer risk associated with snus is significantly lower than that associated with cigarettes.
Social and legal aspects
- Social acceptance: Smoking cigarettes is becoming increasingly stigmatised. Snus, on the other hand, is discreet and widely accepted, especially in Scandinavia.
- Legal situation: The sale of tobacco-based snus is prohibited in the EU (with the exception of Sweden). However, private consumption is not a criminal offence in Germany. Tobacco-free nicotine pouches may be sold legally. You can find out more about the background to this in our article: Why is snus banned?
Where to buy nearby: locally and online
Tobacco-based snus is prohibited in Germany, but tobacco-free nicotine pouches are legally available – both in specialist shops such as tobacconists or kiosks and conveniently online. Buy snus (i.e. the tobacco-free alternative) is legal and safe here.
For a detailed overview of all legal purchasing options in your city and to place an order, you will find all the information you need in our central Buying guide for snus alternatives.
You can find an overview of all cities and the best purchasing options in your area here:
Economic and environmental aspects
- Costs: Snus is often for regular users more cost-effective than cigarettes, as a tin lasts longer.
- Environment: Cigarette butts are one of the most common forms of environmental pollution worldwide and contain toxic substances. Snus pouches are more biodegradable and leave fewer traces behind.
Comparison: Snus vs. cigarettes – facts and figures
| subject | cigarettes | snus | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global deaths per year | approx. 8 million. People die every year as a result of smoking | No global statistics on deaths directly caused by snus | WHO, 2023 |
| risk of cancer | Main cause of lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, bladder cancer | Increased risk of Mouth and throat cancer, but significantly lower than in smokers | WHO/IARC, 2022 |
| passive consumption | Approximately. 1.3 million people to passive smoking | No passive consumption, as no smoke is produced | WHO, 2023 |
| cardiovascular risk | Significantly increased by carbon monoxide + tar | Increased by nicotine, but lower than in smokers | German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ) |
| Costs (Germany, 2025) | 1 box (20 pieces) = 8–9 | 1 tin of snus (20–25 portions) = £3–5 | Consumer prices, 2025 |
| environmental impact | Approx. 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are thrown away every year, contain plastic and toxic substances | Biodegradable snus pouches, significantly lower environmental impact | UNEP, 2022 |
| Legal situation (Germany/EU) | Available for purchase from the age of 18 | Tobacco-containing snus banned in the EU, with Sweden as the only exception; tobacco-free nicotine pouches are permitted | EU Tobacco Products Directive |
Conclusion: Which alternative is „better“?
Neither snus nor cigarettes are risk-free. Both products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. In a direct comparison, snus is the less harmful option as it does not release smoke toxins and does not put strain on the lungs. However, anyone who takes their health seriously should aim to give up nicotine products completely. For many, snus can be a temporary solution to reduce the risks of smoking – you can find a wide selection at Snus Shop, your expert for snus in the United Kingdom.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
Is snus healthier than cigarettes?
Snus is considered less harmful because it does not affect the lungs. However, it carries its own risks, such as gum damage and an increased risk of cancer in the oral cavity.
Can snus help you quit smoking?
Yes, some people use snus as a substitute to help them quit smoking. However, the nicotine addiction remains.
Does snus also cause cancer?
Yes, although the risk is significantly lower than with cigarettes, nitrosamines contained in snus can increase the risk of oral cancer.
Is passive consumption possible with snus?
No, since snus does not produce smoke, there is no passive consumption.
Which alternative is better for your health?
Snus is less harmful in direct comparison. However, the healthiest choice is always to avoid nicotine completely.