Content

• Is it legal to consume snus in Spain?
• What are the differences between snus and nicotine pouches?
• The European Union and Snus
• The curious exception created for Swedes

 Many smokers are looking for alternatives to cigarettes, and two options are snus and nicotine pouches. However, the legality of these products varies in different countries. In this article, we'll explain the legal status of snus and nicotine pouches in Spain. We'll also share with you the curious case of Sweden, which is an exception in Europe when it comes to the legal sale of snus. Let's dive in! 

 

Is it legal to consume snus in Spain?

The answer is yes, but only when the product doesn't contain tobacco.

The thing is that, technically, in this case, the product ceases to be snus and is called nicotine pouches. However, most people still refer to it as snus. 

So, if you're interested in snus in Spain, whether you have been buying it for a while or want to try it, you won't have any problems. But remember that in the European Union, only nicotine pouches with no tobacco can be sold.

 

What are the differences between snus and nicotine pouches?

The difference is actually quite easy to understand. 

• Snus is a tobacco product that comes in the form of small pouches of tobacco powder that are placed under the lip. Unlike chewing tobacco, snus doesn't require chewing, which makes it more discreet and convenient.

• On the other hand, nicotine pouches are similar to snus, but they don't contain tobacco. These pouches, also known as "white snus" or "tobacco-free snus," contain nicotine and other ingredients and are also available in a variety of flavors and levels of nicotine.

Nicotine pouches have gained popularity in recent years, especially among young consumers looking for a tobacco-free alternative to smoking cigarettes. The reason might be that pouches don't produce smoke or expose users to combustion-related chemicals.

In one of our articles, we explain more about the advantages of nicotine pouches over cigarettes.

The European Union and Snus

While personal use of snus is not penalized, the marketing of tobacco products in the EU is subject to a series of regulations established by the Tobacco Products Directive (2014/40/EU). According to it, the sale of snus WITH TOBACCO is not allowed in Europe.

These rules apply in all EU countries, except for Sweden, which obtained a special exception upon joining the Union. This is quite unique, as this exception is based on the long-standing tradition and cultural use of snus in Sweden.

The curious exception created for Swedes

Sweden is the only country in the European Union where snus is legally sold. Snus has been used in Sweden since the 18th century, and its popularity has grown over the years. It is estimated that around 20% of the Swedish population regularly consumes snus.

The Swedish government has argued that the ban on snus is ineffective and that its legal availability contributes to a reduction in smoking tobacco.

In summary, the legal status of snus and nicotine pouches varies in the European Union and Sweden. While most EU countries prohibit the sale of snus with tobacco, Sweden is an exception and allows the legal sale of snus due to its long cultural tradition.

What is legal to consume are nicotine pouches, known by many as "white snus" or "tobacco-free snus." You can find any problem nicotine pouches in Spain on our webpage www.snuscore.es.

Tobacco alternative market professionals hope that as an understanding of the risks associated with tobacco and its alternatives evolves, regulations and laws regarding snus and nicotine pouches may change in the future.

Source:
Main image: REUTERS/Anna Ringstrom/File Photo
Image 1: swedishmatch.se
Image 2, 3: REUTERS/Anna Ringstrom