Snus is gross. But it’s still better than vaping

Snus, a smokeless nicotine product, is discreet and popular as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. In the UK, tobacco-based snus is illegal, but non-tobacco nicotine pouches are legal. The industry, worth £250 million, is rapidly growing. Initially popularized by French diplomat Jean Nicot in the 16th century, snus became a favored nicotine source in Sweden. Zyn, the leading nicotine pouch brand, offers various flavors and has gained political attention in the US. While health risks remain uncertain, some non-tobacco pouches contain cancer-causing substances. Despite personal hesitations, the writer considers trying snus over cigarettes or vaping due to its subtlety and potential benefits.