A Worrying Trend in Nicotine Use Among Teenagers and Professional Footballers

A Growing Concern in Sweden and England

A habit that is worrying health authorities in Sweden where increasing numbers of teenagers are taking what’s known as “snus” is also concerning football authorities in England where one-fifth of professional players are regularly indulging because they say it improves their game.

What is White Snus?

White snus, also known as nicotine pouches, consists of small, tobacco-free pouches containing nicotine, plant-based fibres, and flavorings. These pouches look like a cross between a tea bag and a tablet of chewing gum, and they’re put between the lip and the gum to give users a burst of nicotine without some of the drawbacks of tobacco. Nicotine strength varies widely between different white snus products.

Rise in Popularity

The rise in popularity of white snus around the world can be attributed to aggressive social media marketing campaigns where “Zynfluencers” are sponsored to promote white snus in their lifestyle content and the product is advertised across social media. While marketing for cigarettes and vapes is strictly regulated in the EU, the rules for white snus are up to the individual countries to decide. Many countries don’t regulate white snus so consumers – even very young ones – can order the nicotine pouches easily.

Health Risks

Despite their growing popularity – and marketing attempts to associate white snus with healthier nicotine use – little is known about the specific health risks of white snus. But a lack of research into the effects of nicotine pouches does not mean they are safe. Nicotine is highly addictive, so many of those who try a nicotine product – no matter which one – will find it hard to stop using it. Nicotine has several effects on the body, including increased heart rate and activation of the brain’s reward system, which contributes to its appeal.

Conclusion

While nicotine-free white snus exists, most products on the market contain nicotine. With many young people using white snus, the unanswered questions about its health effects become more pressing. Until more research is available, it’s important to stay cautious: “tobacco-free” does not mean risk-free.

FAQs

Q: What is white snus?
A: White snus is a type of nicotine pouch that contains nicotine, plant-based fibres, and flavorings.

Q: Is white snus safe?
A: Despite its growing popularity, little is known about the specific health risks of white snus. However, nicotine is highly addictive, and long-term effects remain unclear.

Q: What are the health risks of white snus?
A: Research suggests that nicotine may also have a negative impact on brain development, cardiovascular, and oral health. However, long-term effects specific to white snus remain unclear.

Q: Is white snus regulated?
A: The rules for white snus are up to the individual countries to decide. Many countries don’t regulate white snus, so consumers – even very young ones – can order the nicotine pouches easily.