Sweden Faces Controversy: Do Nicotine Pouches Really Reduce Traditional Smoking؟
In Sweden, heated debates continue about the effectiveness of nicotine pouches (snus) as an alternative to traditional smoking. As the debate between proponents and opponents grows, Patrik Strömer, Secretary General of the Swedish Snus Manufacturers Association, has emerged as one of the most prominent advocates of these products, speaking about their significant role in reducing the harms of traditional smoking. In an article published in “Nora Haaland” newspaper, Strömer made a strong argument that Sweden has managed to reduce daily smoking rates significantly, with only 3% of the population daily smokers, according to the latest statistics. He explained, “We are making great strides towards becoming a smoke-free country, and snus is an essential part of this transformation.”
Studies show that nicotine pouches are a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, because the health risks associated with burning tobacco, such as cancer and lung disease, are absent from these products. While nicotine itself is addictive, research shows that alternative nicotine products do not carry the same harms as smoking. In this context, Strömer believes that insisting on linking these products with traditional smoking is inaccurate. He said: “People in Sweden are becoming more aware that snus is not the same as cigarettes, and statistics show that the use of snus has contributed to a significant reduction in traditional smoking rates.”
But despite this evidence, organizations like “Non-Smokers Generation” continue to oppose alternative nicotine products, arguing that they may contribute to the spread of nicotine among new generations. These organizations continue to emphasize the dangers of addiction to nicotine, even if in a less harmful form. This battle between proponents and opponents shows that the nicotine issue remains complex and needs more research and scientific understanding.
In response to these criticisms, Strömer stressed that Sweden has proven successful in reducing traditional smoking rates, saying: “These statistics cannot be ignored. We cannot continue to equate snus with traditional smoking when this comparison contradicts the scientific reality.” He pointed out that snus is not a “gateway” to smoking as some claim, but rather a less harmful choice that has greatly helped reduce smoking in Sweden.
Although Sweden is a pioneer in this area, there is still a long way to go to achieve a “smoke-free country”. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a country is considered smoke-free if its daily smoking rate is less than 5%. In this context, Sweden is seen as a role model, and many experts believe that the Swedish experience could be a first step for other countries to adopt these products as part of a risk reduction strategy.
Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took a major step in recognizing snus products as a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking. This decision came after a series of studies showed that people who switched from cigarettes to snus experienced a significant reduction in health risks. This move marks the beginning of a global shift toward smoke-free alternatives to smoking, such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, nicotine pouches, and chewing tobacco. These developments are expected to influence policies in many countries in the future, emphasizing that quitting smoking remains one of the best decisions you can make for your health.
