Ever craved that nicotine rush but you’re somewhere that doesn’t allow vapes and cigarettes? Fret no more! Smoking supplements like tobacco pouches, nicotine pouches, and even chewing tobacco have proven to be useful when you’re in places where smoking isn’t allowed or have no access to designated smoking or vaping areas.
Several countries like the Philippines have adopted regulatory measures to limit smoking and vaping both indoors and outdoors. Smokers and vapers are only allowed to use cigarettes and e-cigarettes within designated spaces. Luckily, nicotine users now have more choices so they can get their nicotine fix, with the arrival of smokeless alternatives.
Getting to Know Smokeless Alternatives
Smokeless alternatives or tobacco substitutes refer to tobacco-containing and tobacco-free products that don’t require combustion or burning tobacco. Known for its potential for harm reduction, tobacco alternatives have been widely used in the Philippine market.
Part 1 of this guide will talk about oral tobacco products such as snus and chewing tobacco, as well as nicotine pouches. Get to know these alternatives and find out which of these smoking supplements suits your lifestyle the best.
Understanding Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches are one of the most popular smokeless alternatives in the market. Here’s what you need to know about nicotine pouches.
- Nicotine pouches are made up of plant-based materials filled with flavorings and other food-grade ingredients with nicotine, which is either synthetic or derived from tobacco.
- These pouches come in small packets and are tobacco-free, smokeless, and odor-free, which make these an ideal choice to bring anywhere, especially when you are traveling.
- Nicotine pouches may also contain flavorings and sweeteners to enhance the experience and make the products more pleasant to use.
- Many nicotine pouch fans prefer them because of the discreet way that nicotine is delivered. Simply put the nicotine pouch in between your gum and the upper lip, and let it sit for a while to get the desired nicotine hit.
- Studies have also shown that these tobacco-free pouches have the potential to reduce the risks associated with burned tobacco products. But, while they are less harmful than smoking, they are not risk-free.
- Nicotine pouches also do not release second-hand smoke to non-nicotine users.
- These tobacco-free pouches deliver nicotine through the mouth similar to other oral tobacco smokeless alternatives like snus and snuff. Unlike snuff, though, these don’t make users have to spit a lot.
In summary, nicotine pouches allow users to consume nicotine easily and conveniently while also eliminating some of the risks posed by inhaling tobacco products.
Many brands today come in various flavors, nicotine strengths, and sizes suited to every nicotine users’ preference. Locally, some of the most widely available and known brands include On!, Bit, Apres, and Nordic Spirit.
Now that you’ve learned about nicotine pouches, let’s take a look at other smoking substitutes to determine what smoking supplements might be appropriate for you and your lifestyle.
Exploring Snus
Most people find it hard to distinguish the differences from the traditional snus to nicotine pouches.
These two products may look similar, but they in fact have a few major differences.
Both snus and nicotine pouches are nicotine-based products which deliver nicotine orally. However, they differ in the following ways:
- Snus pouches are tobacco-based packets made by blending tobacco leaves, water, salt, and some flavorings.
- Snus, often referred to as “Swedish Snus,” first originated in Sweden in the early 18th century.
- The product comes in two forms: loose snus, which requires users to form their own pouches, and portioned snus, similar to a nicotine pouch, which comes pre-packaged in portioned pouches.
- Akin to nicotine pouches, snus users typically place snus under their lip and leave it for an extended period to allow nicotine to be absorbed orally. Using snus does not involve inhaling nicotine.
- Snus, just like nicotine pouches, offers nicotine users a lower risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory issues attributed to burning tobacco.
- Unlike tobacco-free nicotine pouches, snus contains tobacco, providing nicotine users that distinct tobacco taste.
- Snus is not totally risk-free, and does contain nicotine, tar and other compounds that can be found in tobacco leaves. Some snus users have experienced stained teeth and the product can potentially cause bad breath as well.
- Using snus does not involve spitting, which makes it more sanitary to use than another smokeless oral tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco.
For nicotine users who want that distinct tobacco flavor to be enjoyed anytime and anywhere, snus is an ideal option. Popular snus brands in the Philippines include General Classic, Kaliber, and LD.
If you’re still thinking about the most ideal smoking supplement for you, chewing tobacco can be another consideration. Find out more about chewing tobacco here.
Chewing Tobacco Unwrapped
If you want to enjoy the flavor of tobacco without smoking, chewing tobacco is another smoking supplement that you might want to consider.
- Chewing tobacco, also known as spitting tobacco or spit, is another smokeless alternative that has been around for centuries.
- Chewing tobacco is made up of cured tobacco leaves that are sometimes flavored and cut into small pieces to make it easier for chewing.
- To use it, users usually form the cut tobacco leaves into a ball. They then place it between the cheek and the lower gum to draw out its flavor. The user then regularly chews or sucks on it to release the nicotine.
- Keeping chewing tobacco in your mouth to savor it for up to an hour extends the delivery of nicotine. Since the process of chewing tobacco causes saliva to build up in the mouth, spitting is often necessary.
As a smokeless alternative, chewing tobacco may be used in situations and venues where smoking isn’t allowed. Some users prefer chewing tobacco as they enjoy the mouthfeel of tobacco and the sensation that it provides. However, some find the need to spit during and after use distasteful, especially in certain social situations.
Smoking Supplements Unpacked
While traditional tobacco products are still widely used in the market, the demand for smoking supplements is rising. This is likely due to the potential for harm reduction in smoking supplements, as well as their convenience and ease of use. Smokers and vapers now have more choices to enjoy nicotine whenever and wherever.
How to Choose Your Smoking Supplements
Smoking supplements, also referred to as “smoking substitutes”, play an important role in providing nicotine users distinct experiences to match their lifestyles.
- Chewing tobacco would be the perfect option for those who are looking for that authentic taste, aroma, and flavor of tobacco. With chewing tobacco, users get the mouthfeel of tobacco and the sensation that chewing provides.
- Snus are for those who are avid fans of the taste of tobacco, but have reservations about spitting. Snus is better suited to users who prefer a cleaner and more convenient experience than that of chewing tobacco. With snus, you are able to experience the pronounced tobacco taste without spitting.
- Nicotine pouches offer the discreet, odor-free, and spit-free experience, making them one of the most convenient smoking supplements compared to other smokeless alternatives. For completely discreet nicotine delivery, nicotine pouches provide satisfaction without the unpleasant effects of tobacco use.
If you’re ready to experience nicotine the new way, give smoking supplements a try. Those who don’t use nicotine products regularly should not start with any of the products listed here.
While smoking supplements have the potential to reduce health risks compared to traditional tobacco products, these are not risk-free. These products still contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. Responsible use, moderation, and understanding of the potential risks associated with these products are still crucial.
For further exploration of other smoking supplements, keep an eye out for Part 2 of the Ultimate Guide to Smoking Supplements to learn more about other smokeless alternatives.
