What is Snus

Snus manufacturing is an art and it has evolved during the centuries in the quest for perfection. It all starts with the tobacco. It’s carefully selected to ensure highest quality and best flavor. Different types of tobacco are used depending on the desired character of the snus. Some of the more common tobacco plants used are Virginia, a tobacco plant with medium high nicotine content and a lot of flavor. Rustica which has a mild flavor but a high nicotine content. Burley, a tobacco plant that has a dark, strong and a bit bitter taste. The selected tobacco leaves are then air dried before being shipped to the factory where they’re ground down to a fine blend which serves as the base for the snus. Some water and salt are then added to the mix which gives the snus its texture and an extra touch of flavor. The next step is the heating process. The blend is pasteurized, not fermented. This method both helps to bring out the flavors while it also minimizes the level of TSNA’s (Tobacco specific nitrosamines). After the heating process the snus is refrigerated and some additional aromas such as mint, berries, fruits are added depending on the snus and its desired flavor. The next and final big step is to pack the snus inside sealed cans that protects the snus from contamination. If it’s a loose snus than the tobacco blend goes straight inside the cans while portion snus is packed inside pouches made from the same cellulose material used for tea bags. The cans of snus are then store refrigerated (max 80C) before they’re shipped off to the retailers. During every step of this process the snus is monitored and tested in order to ensure that it meets the high standard of Swedish Food Legislation laws.