Higher and higher levels of nicotine

[snusjus]

With the release of several Swedish Match products with higher levels of nicotine (General Extra Sterk, Claq Qui, and Grovsnus Black), I have pondered how this will effect other snus companies and brands of Swedish Match. In the near future, I hypothesize that Nick & Johnny will either have an extra-stark line or have the nicotine levels raised in the Original portions. As well, there will most likely be extra-stark mini snus pouches (8mg of nicotine per pouch). This is very interesting; what does everyone else think about the innovations of nicotine delivery in Swedish snus and how it will effect the entire snus industry? This is all speculation, but I wouldn't be surprised if my predictions come true.

[mercvrivs]

It's like an arms race.

[airwoodstock]

I don't know if they are introducing higher nicotine level snus to cater to heavy ex-smokers or what. All I can say is, When I started to use snus to stop a 2+ pack a day smoking habit 4 months ago, I really needed the high nicotine snus' to belay the cravings. Now, Skruf Stark is beginning to keep me awake if I have a pris before bed. I find myself picking snus for the flavors now more than the strength.

Just my opinion.

[RobME]

It's like an arms race.

Agreed! and imho, an unnecessary one.

[TripEMT]

I'm liking the higher nicotine levels personally. Especially for my morning snus, and my after meal snus. Although i like having the strong portions all the time, and i really have no idea why... lol

[bakerbarber]

For me I look forward to getting a quick jolt when I need it. I like the idea that I can have a strong portion after dinner when I really really want a cigarette.

Plus, I don't always want to keep a portion in all the time. If I can get my fix and spit out the portion instead of wearing my gums away and staining my teeth then bring it on.

[Sedriak]

I believe the stronger snus is aimed at long time snus users, not smokers or ex-smokers. There are alot of snusers that use two portions at the same time, which is costly (esspecially in Sweden and norway). By using a strong snus these people in effect half their consumption (making it cheaper) and its more practical to use one portion instead of two. As far as effecting the snus Market, I beleive these stronger snuses will have little effect on the market for two reasons. First, general sterk/ekstra sterk and claq qui are only sold in norway (and some online stores) which is smaller Market than in Sweden, thus not really effecting sales of original portions/lös. Secondly, if u look at cigarettes there are many different strengths from 16mg down to 1mg, but the average person smokes 8's or 10's. So the point I'm trying make is that these strong snuses are only going to add to the variety and selection we have. Not a bad thing I say!!

[mercvrivs]

I like strong snuses. I miss the hell out of my skruf stark loose in the mornings right now.

However, I think that if I do these I won't be able to enjoy any other portions. Don't get me wrong, I love loose a hell of a lot more than portions, but I find that I always keep some around for 1. The middle of the night, and 2. When I'm in a meeting or something formal. I think that if (more like when) I try these, I won't be able to stand any other portions. I might as well not even order any General Onyx to try; it won't be strong enough once I try the new extra sterk and RL CQ.

Nicotine is a harsh mistress.

[snusbear1]

I agree with bakerbarber. Strong (or extra strong) snus, regardless of whom it's marketed to, is really ideal for those using snus to stop smoking. What I want in a substitute for smoking is something that will approximate cigarettes in giving me a fairly quick hit of nicotine, ramp up quickly, then ramp down quickly, until I'm ready for my next "dose," rather than ramping up slowly to a long term steady state. (This is why I also enjoy nasal snuff.)

Like bakerbarber, this is why I like to take a really strong snus, keep it in til I get my "fix," then spit it out. Doing it this way is certainly more expensive than using snus just 2 or 3 times a day and keeping it in for long periods of time, but it's no more expensive than smoking, and infinitely less harmful.

mercvrivs - nicotine is a harsh mistress indeed! I too wonder, after trying a lot of strong snus, if I'll even see the point of using regular portions again!

[squeezyjohn]

I think that the new extra strong portions coming out are more of a sign of the demise of los snus unfortunately. Think about it - when you feel like a real kick and you're a los user then you just make a bigger pris. I'm certain that my bigger ones will certainly give me more nicotine than 15mg!

It's just a sign of the times that people like a more discreet and sanitized way of taking it, and that goes for people that like a big hit too. I'm slightly worried that the world of los may be on the way out