The term chewing tobacco refers to a tobacco-containing product from Scandinavia that is intended for oral use. It is already widespread among athletes and sportspeople, as they hope to achieve faster reaction times and reduced nervousness through its use.
In this article, we want to take a closer look at the ingredients and effects of chewing tobacco and reveal whether chewing tobacco can be classified as a drug.
What ingredients are in chewing tobacco?
Chewing tobacco has consisted for decades of ground tobacco, salt, various flavors, and water. Traditionally, chewing tobacco is sold loose, as with the oldest variety Ettan chewing tobacco. Nowadays, chewing tobacco is also available in convenient Nicotine Pouches made from cellulose. These are also placed under the upper lip during use and release their effects there.
The nicotine content of chewing tobacco varies depending on the variety; strong varieties can contain up to 45 mg/g of nicotine, while mild ones average 5 to 10 mg/g. There are also varieties completely free of nicotine. However, there are very concerning products mainly from the East, which with nicotine levels of over 100 mg/g pose a danger to consumers. Snushus strictly rejects such products and explicitly warns consumers against them.
A special type of chewing tobacco that has become popular in recent years are the All White Pouches, such as products from the brands VELO and edel. These contain nicotine but are completely tobacco-free and do not stain the teeth.
The effects of chewing tobacco
In the mouth, the ground tobacco is moistened by saliva, and through the mucous membranes, the nicotine enters the bloodstream and finally the brain. Nicotine increases the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that triggers positive feelings in the body.
Because of this effect on the body, chewing tobacco is often used by athletes as a stimulant. Chewing tobacco can temporarily reduce negative emotions while simultaneously boosting adrenaline production. Chewing tobacco and nicotine are not currently on the list of banned stimulants in sports and can still be used by athletes.
Harmfulness of chewing tobacco
Since almost all varieties of chewing tobacco contain nicotine, it can be addictive. Not much is yet known about the damage caused by chewing tobacco. However, it is often associated with gum recession, oral inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and increased cancer risk in the mouth and pancreas. Scientific evidence for these consequences is still limited.
With excessive use of chewing tobacco, especially first-time users risk nicotine poisoning. Therefore, chewing tobacco should always be used in moderation, and people trying it for the first time should start with a low nicotine content.
Conclusion: Is chewing tobacco a drug and does it get you high?
By definition, drugs are substances that cause changes in consciousness and are addictive. Since chewing tobacco contains high amounts of nicotine depending on the variety, regular use can lead to addiction. Because its use triggers a feeling of euphoria, it can be said that chewing tobacco does get you high.
Despite the potential for addiction, it remains a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. When using chewing tobacco, no combustion process occurs, and fewer toxic substances are absorbed than when smoking. Additionally, it eliminates the risk of passive smoking and is better for the environment, as the Nicotine Pouches are biodegradable.
