Snus: Popular nicotine pouches between enjoyment and health risks!

Snus: Popular nicotine pouches between enjoyment and health risks!

The small, seemingly harmless nicotine pouches called snus are on the rise and are particularly popular among athletes and young people. But the other side of the coin is the potential health risks that both experts and a tragic incident have highlighted.

Rugby player Hassaine Kolingar suffered a cardiac arrest after consuming snus, with doctors diagnosing tachycardia as a possible cause. Such incidents are a warning shot that opens eyes to the risks of this popular product. [Welt] reports that snus contains up to four times as much nicotine as a strong cigarette and health warning signs should not be ignored.

Snus and its popularity

In Sweden, where snus has been part of the culture for over 100 years, about 16% of adults consume this product, while only about 5% of the population smokes. In Germany, however, the sale of snus containing tobacco is prohibited, but it is often sold under the counter. The popularity of snus also has prominent supporters such as Ashton Kutcher and Brad Pitt, while athletes such as Leroy Sané contribute to the positive perception as a supposedly healthy nicotine alternative.

A study by Loughborough University shows that 20% of male professional footballers surveyed in England already consume snus. This trend and the associated normalization are worrying for many, especially in terms of its impact on the younger generation.

Health risks and long-term consequences

Consuming snus can lead not only to nicotine addiction but also to serious health problems. Health experts warn that snus can increase the risk of heart attacks and type 2 diabetes, as well as causing damage to gums. [Journalistenwatch] points out that despite a long-term Swedish study that found no clear connection between snus and heart disease, the health risk should still not be taken lightly.

Another worrying issue is the possible long-term consequences. While tobacco-containing snus contains carcinogenic substances, nicotine-free versions can be less harmful, but are not without risks. However, long-term studies on these new nicotine pouches are lacking, making it difficult to assess their safety. [Geo] points out that nicotine addiction is a major problem from the start, as the pouches often contain amounts of nicotine equivalent to consuming three cigarettes.

The trend is online

The trend for snus and nicotine pouches has also reached the Internet. Suppliers such as Haypp and Snusdiscount sell a variety of brands, with nicotine levels ranging from 4 mg/g to over 30 mg/g. But easy access via online shops also poses the risk that young people will come into unhindered contact with nicotine, which could lead to a potential “epidemic”. Advertising bans on social media are often circumvented, thereby overshadowing awareness of the health risks.

In summary, snus and nicotine pouches are a double-edged sword. While they are establishing themselves as a popular alternative to cigarettes, their consumption also poses significant risks that cannot be ignored. The discussion about snus shows that speed and enjoyment can sometimes have serious consequences.