Snus and tobacco-free snus also known as nicotine pouches are enjoyed by many users worldwide but many are not educated on how to store snus properly. In this article we plan to give you the ultimate guide to storing your snus correctly and why you should implement these practices.
Storing snus correctly is in your best interest as it will stop your snus from drying out. Maintaining the moisture in your snus is important to preserve that juicy flavour you love so much and most importantly maintain its nicotine kick.
Why Storing Snus Properly Matters
Whether you store your snus properly or not will determine how enjoyable and fresh it stays throughout its lifetime. Correct storage will ensure that your snus maintains its moisture and thus its freshness. Freshness is key to an enjoyable snus experience as dried-out snus can be less comfortable to use it’s nicotine content can degrade making them less potent. High temperatures, direct sunlight and dry air can all contribute to the degradation of your snus leading to a less enjoyable experience. By implementing proper storage practices you will be able to ensure you get that fresh pot feeling every time!
Conditions for Storing Snus Properly
There are three important points to consider when storing your snus. Temperature, humidity and air exposure.
Temperature
Too high temperatures will dry out your snus rapidly, dry snus is not as comfortable to use and often destroys the flavour and weakens the nicotine hit. Snus are best stored in cool temperatures, you will often see seasoned snus users keeping their snus in the fridge. This is because the cool environment helps to preserve its moisture and slow the process of nicotine degradation, similarly to how it preserves the shelf life of food products. If refrigeration isn’t an option, finding a cool shaded place for storage can make a huge difference.
Humidity
Maintaining the right level of moisture is essential for keeping snus fresh and flavourful as full-bodied flavours often rely on a certain level of moisture to carry the flavour. To maintain this it is best to keep snus in its original sealed packaging or if you want to go a step further and strive for optimum freshness, once you have broken the seal on your pot you can transfer your snus to an airtight container. Keeping the moisture in your snus will preserve the richness of the flavour and overall experience.
Air Exposure
Minimising exposure to air is one of the most crucial aspects when it comes to storing snus properly. When snus is left exposed to air, it dries out quickly which leads to all the negative things that come with dry snus that we have mentioned above. Always reseal the packaging after each use or store it in an airtight container. Even just a couple of hours of air exposure can be enough to make your pouches dry and harsh. By simply making a habit of closing the lid tightly every time you take a pouch out, you can significantly extend the freshness and effectiveness of your snus.
How Long Does Snus Last?
Somewhere on your tin, you will find an expiry date or date of manufacture. The consensus is that Snus is good for 1 year from the date of manufacture, however some brands will state 2 years. If you’re wondering whether you can use expired snus we have written a whole article on the topic here.
Generally, snus is safe to use past its expiry date, tobacco-based snus is more susceptible to mould so you should check it well if you are using it past its expiry date. Nicotine pouches on the other hand come with little to no risk of using after their expiry date. The only negative is that you will experience diminished flavour, dry pouches and a reduced nicotine hit.
The shelf life of snus depends heavily on how it was stored, when you store snus properly unopened snus can maintain freshness for months past it’s expiry date. Opened snus should be used within 2 months but proper storage can maintain it’s storage for many weeks after this.
Should You Store Snus in The Fridge?
It is not a requirement to store snus in the fridge, but can it help to prolong its freshness? Absolutely. Similarly to preserving food the cool temperature in the refrigerator helps to slow the process of the nicotine degrading in your snus. It also helps to keep the snus moist preserving its flavour and potency.
By refrigerating snus, you can enjoy a product that stays softer and more flavourful for a longer period. However, refrigeration isn’t a magic fix, if the snus is already past its prime, the fridge won’t restore its original quality. For best results, keep your snus in an airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge, usually at the back. This not only prevents it from picking up odours but also ensures a consistent temperature, preserving the snus’s texture and taste. If you find that the cold makes your snus too firm, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Exposure to Sunlight
One of the most common mistakes people make when storing snus is leaving it in direct sunlight. Whether it’s sitting by a window or left out on a table, sunlight can quickly dry out your pouches, stripping them of their moisture and flavour. Worse yet, the heat from sunlight can accelerate the breakdown of nicotine, making your snus weaker. Always store your snus in a cool, dark place, like a drawer or cupboard, to protect it from light and heat. If you’re on the go, consider using an insulated container to keep it out of the sun’s harmful rays.
Not Resealing the Packaging
Another common error is forgetting to reseal the tin after taking out a pouch. When snus is left exposed to air, it dries out much faster, becoming hard, less enjoyable to use, and losing its rich flavour. The nicotine content also starts to degrade once the pouches dry out. Make it a habit to close the lid tightly every time you take out a pouch. If the original packaging isn’t resealable, transfer your snus to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Storing in Hot or Humid Environments
Leaving snus in a hot or humid place, like a car on a sunny day, can be a quick way to ruin your pouches. Heat speeds up the drying process, while high humidity can make Snus overly moist and affect its texture and flavour. If you live in a warmer climate or are travelling somewhere hot, use a cooler bag or insulated container to keep your snus at a stable temperature.
Best Practices for Storing Snus
Follow these best practices for both opened and unopened products and learn how to store snus properly.
Use Sealed Containers
Always keep snus sealed in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it. Once opened, close the lid tightly after each use. If the original packaging isn’t airtight, transfer your snus to a sealed container to maintain its moisture and flavour. This will go a long way in keeping your snus fresh and potent for longer.
Store in Cool, Dark Places
Snus thrives in cool, dark environments. A drawer, cupboard, or even the fridge (following the guidelines mentioned earlier) can work well. Keeping your snus away from direct sunlight and heat sources prevents it from drying out and losing its nicotine strength.
Avoid Excessive Heat and Humidity
High temperatures and humidity can ruin the texture and flavour of snus. If you’re out and about in a warm climate, consider carrying your snus in an insulated container to keep it at a stable temperature. By protecting your snus from heat and humidity, you’ll ensure that every pouch delivers the kick and flavour you expect.
FAQs About Storing Snus
Can snus go bad?
Yes, snus can go bad, especially if it’s not stored properly. Tobacco-based snus is more susceptible to mould if left in warm, humid conditions for too long. Nicotine pouches, while more stable, can still dry out and lose their flavour and potency over time. Always check the “best before” date on your tin and follow proper storage guidelines to keep your snus at its best.
How should I store snus while travelling?
When travelling, keep your snus in a cool, dark place. If you’re flying, carry it in your hand luggage rather than your checked bags, as temperature changes in the cargo hold can affect its quality. If you’re heading to a hot destination, consider using an insulated container or a small cooler bag to protect your snus from the heat.
Does snus lose its nicotine content over time?
Yes, snus can lose some of its nicotine potency over time, especially if it’s not stored correctly. Exposure to air, heat, and light can speed up this process. By keeping your snus in a cool, airtight environment, you can slow down the degradation and preserve its nicotine strength for longer.
What’s the best place to store snus at home?
The best place to store snacks at home is in a cool, dark location like a drawer, cupboard, or fridge. Just make sure it’s kept away from heat sources like ovens or heaters. If you choose to store it in the fridge, follow the best practices mentioned earlier to avoid exposure to odours and moisture.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the best practices, you can ensure that your snus stays fresh, moist, and full of flavour for as long as possible.
In a Nutshell
Knowing how to store snus properly is essential for keeping it fresh, flavourful, and effective. By paying attention to factors like temperature, humidity, and air exposure, you’ll be able to maintain the moisture and nicotine potency of your snus for much longer. Whether you choose to keep it in the fridge, a drawer, or a cupboard, the key is to avoid heat, direct sunlight, and excessive air exposure. By following these simple storage practices, you’ll ensure every pouch delivers the satisfying experience you’re after and gives you that fresh pot feeling. So next time you pick up a fresh tin, remember these tips on how to store snus properly and enjoy that perfect, juicy flavour every time.
