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[TEST] What is snus and how does it work?

Published 24 April 2026 15:17 BST

With a long list of subtle variations, it can be hard to know the differences between oral nicotine products. In this guide, we help you to understand the characteristics of snus, snuff and other forms of oral nicotine. Plus, we introduce you to VELO – a modern take on nicotine..

What is snus?

Pronounced ‘snoose’, snus is a type of moist tobacco from Sweden. Snus contains both tobacco and nicotine which means it is addictive. Snus comes in various forms including pre-moulded portions, prepacked pouches and as a loose powder that the user forms into portions..

Is snus legal in the UK?


Snus is not legal in the UK. In fact, it is illegal to sell snus in all European Union countries except for Sweden, where snus has a longstanding tradition. Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, so far this legislation has not changed


How does snus work?


Snus contains both tobacco and nicotine. Snus users place the product under the upper lip and nicotine is released into the saliva.



What are the effects of snus?


As snus contains nicotine, you can expect to experience all the effects of nicotine.

Of course, nicotine is highly addictive. As such, snus users are very likely to become reliant on using snus.

Velo

Vapes

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Snus

Contains nicotine
Tobacco-free*
Vapour
No device or charging needed
Tucked between lip and gum
Legal to buy in the UK

*VELO nicotine pouches contain no tobacco. This product is not risk-free and contains nicotine, an addictive substance.


Contains nicotine / Tobacco-free: VELO says snus contains tobacco and nicotine, while nicotine pouches are tobacco-free.

No vapour / No device or charging needed: Pouches need no device, charging or refills. Vapes heat e-liquid in a rechargeable device to make vapour

Tucked between lip and gum: VELO and snus are both tucked between the top lip and gum.

Legal to buy in the UK: Snus has been illegal in the UK since the Tobacco for Oral Use (Safety) Regulations in 1992.

What is snuff?


Snuff is a finely ground dried tobacco product that comes in two forms: dried and moist. Dried snuff is inhaled into the nasal cavity, whilst moist snuff is placed between your lower lip and gum.

Snuff also contains nicotine which is absorbed through the lining of your nose or mouth.


Is snuff illegal?


Unlike snus, snuff is legal in the UK. It is also exempt from the Tobacco Products Duty. This is a tax charged on sales of many tobacco products.


What is chewing tobacco?


Chewing tobacco is a smokeless tobacco made from cured tobacco leaves. It comes in many forms including leaves, pellets, plugs, and twists. You will also find flavoured and sweetened varieties.

Users place the chewing tobacco between the inner cheek and gums and suck on the tobacco juices produced by the saliva and tobacco infusing together.


What is Epok?


Epok is an oral tobacco brand. It’s a purified, white version of snus that comes in pouches.


What is VELO?


VELO is an oral nicotine product. Invented in Scandinavia, it’s a handy pouch containing nicotine and high-quality ingredients.


Designed for adult smokers and nicotine users looking for an alternative to smoking, VELO is designed to be a more convenient way to consume nicotine on-the-go.


VELO comes in four strengths and nine flavours and is designed to be used anytime, anywhere. You simply tuck the VELO pouch between your upper lip and gum.


Browse nicotine pouches


Want to try handsfree, smokeless* nicotine? Discover how to get a free can of VELO in three easy steps.


*This product is not risk-free and contains nicotine, an addictive substance.