Smoke-free nicotine use: alternatives at a glance

In short: Smoke-free nicotine use covers products in which nothing is burned: nicotine pouches and snus, e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. They work differently, but all contain nicotine – and nicotine is addictive. Smoke-free products are not risk-free either. In Switzerland they may only be sold to adults aged 18 and over.

Smoke-free nicotine products are in demand in Switzerland, mainly because of their discretion: no smoke, no ashtray, hardly any smell. This article explains the three product groups, what is known about risks and dosage, and what the law says. If you don't smoke, don't start.

What types of smoke-free nicotine use are there?

Nicotine pouches and snus: nicotine via the oral mucosa

Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free portion pouches that are placed under the upper lip. The nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa. Classic snus works the same way but contains tobacco. With regular use, irritation of the oral mucosa and gum recession can occur. Brands such as VELO, ZYN or Siberia come in many strengths and flavours.

E-cigarettes: aerosol instead of smoke

E-cigarettes (vapes) heat a liquid, usually containing nicotine, until it vaporises. An aerosol is produced, not smoke. Many liquids contain nicotine salt, which is smoother to inhale than classic freebase nicotine. There are disposable devices and rechargeable pod systems such as the ELFA Pro.

Heated tobacco: heating instead of burning

Heated tobacco devices heat real tobacco without burning it. An aerosol is produced instead of smoke. Legally, they count as tobacco products.

The three groups at a glance:

• Nicotine pouches / snus: used orally, no vapour, discreet
• E-cigarettes: liquid-based, aerosol, disposable or rechargeable
• Heated tobacco: real tobacco, no combustion, aerosol

Classic nasal snuff, which also works without combustion, can be found in the snuff collection, for example from Pöschl.

What are the risks?

"Smoke-free" does not mean "harmless". All three product groups deliver nicotine, and nicotine is addictive. It affects the heart and circulation and can raise pulse and blood pressure – relevant above all for people with cardiovascular disease. For pregnant women, nicotine is problematic in any form.

Many people underestimate the effect precisely because there is no smoke. Too much nicotine can cause dizziness, nausea, palpitations and headaches. If nicotine poisoning is suspected – especially in children – contact Tox Info Suisse (emergency number 145) or the ambulance emergency number 144 immediately.

What should you look out for when buying and using?

Assessing nicotine content correctly

The nicotine content of nicotine pouches varies widely. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) found values ranging from around 9.5 mg on average up to 47.5 mg per pouch in its analyses. Anyone who picks a product that is too strong will notice quickly. The guides Snus dosage and strength in mg and Nicotine content: effects and risks provide orientation.

Step by step

1. Choose the strength: If you are using nicotine pouches for the first time, choose a low strength and don't increase it without reason. Extremely strong products are only for very experienced users.
2. Place the pouch correctly: Slide it under the upper lip; do not chew or swallow it. The effect usually sets in after a few minutes.
3. Limit the duration of use: Don't leave the pouch in your mouth for too long and change position so that the mucosa is not constantly irritated in the same spot.
4. Draw calmly when vaping: With MTL (mouth-to-lung) devices, the vapour is first drawn into the mouth and then into the lungs; this produces less visible vapour.
5. Only buy tested products: Black-market goods often have unclear ingredients and nicotine content.

What does Swiss law say?

• Age limit: The Tobacco Products Act (TabPG) has applied since 1 October 2024. Tobacco products, nicotine products including nicotine pouches, e-cigarettes with and without nicotine and heated tobacco may only be supplied to people aged 18 and over – online too, with age verification.
• Snus: Tobacco for oral use has been legal in Switzerland since 2019. Snus and nicotine pouches are subject to a tobacco tax of 10% of the retail price.
• E-cigarettes: Since 1 October 2024 a tax of CHF 1.00 per ml has applied to disposable e-cigarettes and CHF 0.20 per ml to nicotine-containing liquids, plus VAT. Hybrid and big puff devices with an extra tank may no longer be sold since the Federal Supreme Court ruling of 14 April 2026. More on this: Vape tax in Switzerland.
• Abroad: In France, nicotine pouches have been banned since 1 April 2026 (including possession and import); in Germany they are considered non-marketable. Before travelling, check the guide Travelling with snus.

Key takeaways

Smoke-free nicotine products at Snustrend

Snustrend stocks snus and nicotine pouches, disposable vapes, pod systems and snuff with clear nicotine information. Shipping costs CHF 8.90, or CHF 4.90 (Economy) for orders of CHF 60 or more. A comparison of well-known pouch brands can be found in the article ZYN vs. VELO.

FAQ

What is smoke-free nicotine use?

It means taking in nicotine via products in which nothing is burned: nicotine pouches and snus, e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. Nicotine is just as addictive this way.

Are nicotine pouches legal in Switzerland?

Yes. Nicotine pouches may be sold in Switzerland to adults aged 18 and over and have been subject to the Tobacco Products Act since 1 October 2024.

How much nicotine is in a nicotine pouch?

It varies greatly. The BfR found values ranging from around 9.5 mg on average up to 47.5 mg per pouch. The figure on the can is what counts.

What side effects do smoke-free nicotine products have?

Nicotine can raise pulse and blood pressure and, at too high a dose, cause dizziness and nausea. With nicotine pouches and snus, irritation of the oral mucosa and gum recession can also occur.

Note: Nicotine products are only for adults aged 18 and over. Nicotine is addictive. This is not legal or tax advice.