With approximately 106,000 people in Thailand succumbing to smoking-related illnesses annually, people are exploring alternatives in pursuit of a safer option. For many, the answer is Swedish snus (pronounced “snoose” and rhymes with “goose”), a traditional Scandinavian tobacco product that comes in small pouches. Unlike cigarettes or vapes, you place one of these pouches between your upper lip and gum to release the nicotine. It’s like a tiny teabag of tobacco – no smoke and discreet.
What is Swedish snus?
Swedish snus is one of the earliest novel tobacco products, predating alternatives like electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco by several centuries. This smokeless tobacco product is made from ground tobacco, which is heat-treated (pasteurized) along with salts and water, alkalized with soda, and then flavored with natural ingredients and aromas before being portioned and packaged in tiny tea bag-like pouches. Snus is also available in loose form without the pouches.
In Thailand, Swedish snus brands like Haypee infuse their products with various flavorings such as berry, lemon, mango, coconut, bergamot, and licorice to enhance the taste.
How do you use Swedish snus?
Instead of burning, you use Swedish snus by placing the small pouch between your upper lip and gum to release the nicotine. It will then be absorbed by your mouth’s mucus membranes and transported into the bloodstream.
The time you keep the snus in your mouth depends on your tolerance to nicotine and your personal preference. You can keep it in for up to an hour for a stronger nicotine effect, or remove it after just a few minutes for a milder experience. Once you’re satisfied, simply remove the pouch from your mouth and dispose of it in a waste bin.
Is Swedish snus less harmful than traditional cigarettes?
While studies on Swedish snus are ongoing, some researchers suggest that snus may be a potentially less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes. The pasteurization process reduces cancer-causing substances known as carcinogens. One study indicated that snus carries only five percent of the harm associated with cigarettes. For context, there were 84,000 smoking related casualties in Thailand over the last year whereas there were 0 in relation to Snus.
Dr. Thomas Westin, a head and neck cancer specialist and associate professor at the University Hospital of Sahlgrenska in Gothenburg, Sweden, explains in an interview that there’s yet to see a direct connection between Swedish snus use and head and neck cancer patients, despite its widespread use in Sweden.
Sweden has one of the lowest lung cancer incidence and mortality rates in Europe, according to data from the WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and World Health Rankings. This may be partly attributed to the use of Swedish snus.
However, it’s important to note that snus still contains nicotine and can lead to addiction. It should be used in moderation, as less harmful doesn’t necessarily mean healthy.
Can Swedish snus help you quit smoking?
Dr. Thomas Westin suggests that Swedish snus could be a viable alternative for people struggling to quit smoking. Snus is credited for its role in reducing smoking rates in Sweden, with over half of Swedish snus users being former smokers. A study conducted in Norway further supports this notion, indicating that Swedish snus use was helpful for people who successfully quit smoking.
Where can you find Swedish snus in Thailand?
Finding Swedish snus in Thailand has become easier with the arrival of brands like Haypee, which provides a reliable and legitimate source for snus enthusiasts across the Kingdom. Haypee manufactures all their snus locally in Thailand using Swedish traditional methods, ensuring quality and competitive prices.
Top 5 Snus Brands in Thailand:
- Velo
- Siberia
- Fox
- Haypee
- Yop
These brands offer a range of flavors and strengths to cater to different preferences.
A Swedish Tradition in Thailand
In the coastal city of Bang Saen, Thailand, a unique production is taking place that ties into old Swedish traditions. Here, in a factory led by Tanapon Bunjan and Roland Holm, Swedish white portion snus is manufactured to the highest quality standards.
Tanapon Bunjan, born 34 years ago in Phichit, central Thailand, has an inspiring journey from a poor novice monk to becoming the snus chief in Thailand. His experience working at Swedsnus in Gothenburg, Sweden, has been invaluable in establishing Haypee snus factory in Bang Saen.
The production at Haypee snus factory follows strict Swedish quality standards. The snus is pasteurized to reduce levels of harmful substances and ensure the product’s durability and safety.
As Swedish snus continues to gain popularity in Thailand, it offers an alternative for those looking to move away from traditional cigarettes. However, as with any tobacco product, it’s essential to use it responsibly and be aware of the potential risks associated with nicotine use.
Swedish snus is only available for individuals aged 20 years and above in Thailand.