Snus has recently seen a considerable rise in popularity in the States. A growing number of snus brands is entering the U.S. market, providing various options to those seeking to enjoy tobacco without smoke.
But is snus legal in the U.S., and how is it regulated? Learn all about it in our detailed guide, which explains snus legality in the U.S. and recommends a safer, universally available alternative.
Is Snus Legally Available in the U.S.? A Complete Answer
Source: Tumisu
The short answer is yes, it is. Snus products have been legal in the U.S. since 2019, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the sale and distribution of snus, classifying it as a modified risk tobacco product.
In October 2019, the FDA—the main regulatory body for tobacco products in the U.S.—issued a press release granting authorization for eight Swedish Match snus products sold under the General brand. This decision was based on scientific evidence showing that Swedish snus carries fewer health risks than cigarettes.
Despite initially applying to only eight Swedish Match products, the FDA’s decision was an important milestone that opened the door for other snus brands to be sold and promoted as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes.
The Future of Swedish Snus in the U.S.
Modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) authorizations aren’t permanent and require manufacturers to reapply every five years. As a result, the FDA’s General Snus approval is valid until October 2024.
Swedish Match submitted a new application in July 2023 to avoid losing its license. In November 2023, the FDA accepted the application and is currently reviewing it.
Key Milestones in the U.S. Regulation of Swedish Snus
The table below outlines major regulatory milestones of Swedish snus in the U.S.:
| Date | Regulatory Phase |
| June 2014 | The initial MRTP application for eight General Snus products was submitted |
| March 2015 | The pre-market tobacco product application for eight General Snus products was submitted |
| November 2015 | The FDA approved Swedish Match’s pre-market tobacco product application |
| October 2019 | The FDA authorized General Snus as a modified risk tobacco product |
| July 2023 | Swedish Match submitted a renewal application for its General Snus line of products |
| November 2023 | The FDA conducted a comprehensive review of the renewal application |
| December 2023 | The FDA opened the Swedish Match’s application for public comments and opinions |
| October 2024 | The expiration date for the initial General Snus application |
Marketing Regulations of Swedish Snus Products in the U.S.
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Swedish snus falls under strict marketing regulations enforced by the FDA, affecting how snus can be promoted. These regulations apply to:
- Product packaging—Snus packaging must comply with the FDA rules, including clear health warnings, limits on misleading claims, and restrictions on imagery and colors appealing to young people
- Advertising content—Snus advertising, both printed and digital, must display clear health warnings and avoid using false claims that could encourage non-smokers or youth to use these products
These regulations apply to all manufacturers and retailers selling snus products in the U.S.
Purchasing Swedish Snus in the United States
Snus is available for purchase across the U.S. It’s sold in various brick-and-mortar stores, where you can get popular snus brands like General, Siberia, and Skruf.
You can also order snus online and have it delivered to your home. This allows you to try less popular products not available locally or explore more exotic brands from overseas.
Can You Import Snus Into the U.S.?
If you purchased Swedish snus and want to bring it into the U.S., you must comply with the U.S. customs regulations regarding the quantity restrictions on importing snus for personal use.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Sweden, you are permitted to bring one roll containing five cans of snus duty-free.
Still, these rules may differ depending on your country of origin and the U.S. state you’re entering.
That’s why it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the exact limitations set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the FDA. Understanding these regulations will help you avoid potential legal issues when entering the U.S.
Is Swedish Snus Better Than American Snus?
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Snus is traditionally a Swedish product, but several American companies, such as Camel and Skoal, have introduced their snus. Both variants contain pasteurized tobacco, but American snus differs considerably from traditional Swedish snus in the following ways:
- Pouch size—Swedish snus pouches are larger, hold more content, and offer a stronger kick and richer flavor
- Flavors—Swedish snus has an intense tobacco aroma and comes in various flavors, whereas American snus has a milder tobacco taste and comes in limited flavors like menthol, peppermint, and bergamot
- Nicotine content—Swedish snus offers a broader range of strengths that go up to 45 mg of nicotine per pouch (most manufacturers don’t go over 22 mg/g), while American snus has a nicotine level of 1.5 to 2.5 mg per pouch
- Moisture and pH levels—According to a study comparing these two snus variants, American snus has lower moisture and pH levels than the Swedish variant, resulting in less efficient nicotine absorption
- TSNA amounts—American snus has twice as many tobacco-specific nitrosamines. These are naturally occurring chemicals found in tobacco, known to cause cancer
Nicotine Pouches—Safer Than Snus and Legal Everywhere
Source: SnusBoss
Unlike snus, which is banned in most of the EU and many countries worldwide because it contains tobacco, nicotine pouches are widely available, including in the U.S.
These 100% tobacco-free pouches deliver nicotine in a safer way, using pharmaceutical-grade nicotine instead of tobacco, along with food-grade ingredients. By eliminating tobacco, they remove carcinogenic TSNAs, reducing the risk of life-threatening conditions and diseases.
Other nicotine pouch ingredients include:
- High-grade nicotine
- Plant-based cellulose fibers
- Various flavorings
- Natural and artificial sweeteners
- pH balancers
- Granulating agents
In addition to minimizing health risks, nicotine pouches also don’t cause deep teeth stains associated with snus and other traditional tobacco products. Even if mild staining does occur, it’s easily treatable with standard dental care products.
Additional Benefits of Nicotine Pouches
Besides being more convenient and carrying fewer risks, nicotine pouches offer several additional benefits:
- A wide range of strengths—Nicotine pouches come in a greater variety of strengths than any tobacco product. They range from 3 mg per pouch for the mildest nicopods to over 50 mg per pouch for the strongest options
- High absorption rates—Nicopods boast the highest absorption rates of up to 50%, surpassing all tobacco products
- Large selection of flavors—Being tobacco-free, nicotine pouches don’t have the strong tobacco taste that many users dislike. Instead, they offer various flavors, from traditional, minty aromas to more adventurous options to spice up your nicotine routine
How To Use Nicotine Pouches
Using nicotine pouches is similar to using snus. Here’s how it works:
- Place a single pouch between your gums and the upper lip
- Let the pouch sit there for 5 to 45 minutes, depending on your nicotine tolerance. Don’t chew, suck, or swallow the pouch
- Once you feel satisfied, remove the used pouch and dispose of it responsibly away from children and pets
Where To Order Premium European Nicotine Pouches Online
SnusBoss is a reputable online store run by a team of seasoned experts with years of experience in providing high-quality nicotine pouches. The store offers a wide selection of premium European nicopods, known for their richer flavors, higher moisture, and stronger kick than U.S. products.
The FDA’s decision to classify nicotine pouches as tobacco products discouraged U.S. manufacturers from refining their pouches. They were forced to undergo complicated pre-marketing procedures when launching and advertising new products. This gave European manufacturers a competitive advantage, allowing them to develop superior nicopods.
See the full range of nicotine pouch brands available at SnusBoss in the table below:
| ZYN | Velo | Dope | GOAT | Denssi |
| Glitch | Hit | Oryx | Pik | Snatch |
| Pablo | Kozmo | Jäger | Kurwa | White Fox |
| Thor | Roger | Killa | Klint | Kick |
| Siberia | Chapo | Paz |
To place an order from SnusBoss, follow these steps:
- Visit the online store
- Select your preferred brand, strength, and flavor
- Enter your shipping and billing info
You can choose express delivery at checkout to receive your order in 2–3 business days. Shipping is free for orders above $249.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Snus Legal in New York?
Yes, snus is legal in New York. However, it’s regulated like other tobacco products, meaning you must be 21 or older to purchase it. Snus manufacturers and resellers must comply with state and federal tobacco regulations regarding packaging, labeling, and advertising.
Is General Snus FDA-Approved?
Yes, General Snus is FDA-approved under the Modified Risk Tobacco Product (MRTP) category. The FDA determined that General Snus carries lower health risks than smoking but is not risk-free. This approval allows manufacturers to market it as carrying reduced risks compared to cigarettes.
Do You Have To Be 21 To Buy Tobacco in the U.S.?
Yes, you must be 21 years old to buy tobacco products in the U.S., including snus. This federal law, known as “Tobacco 21,” has been in effect since December 2019 and applies to cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and all smokeless tobacco products.
Why Is Snus Legal in Sweden?
Snus is legal in Sweden because the country was granted an exception from the European Union’s ban on oral tobacco products when it joined the EU in 1995. Sweden has a long tradition of snus, allowing the government to preserve its legality based on cultural and health reasons.
Featured image source: Olga_Fil
