So, what is snuff really? In the simplest definition possible, snuff tobacco is pulverized tobacco in powder form. It is much finer than moist chewing tobacco, but can be taken orally as well as nasally. Snuff comes in hundreds of flavors and varieties from all over the world. Some snuffs are more moist than others and vary in color, from dark brown to black to white. But what’s the difference? Lets start with texture.
Moist of Dry?
No snuff is as moist as chewing tobacco. Some come close, but to really be enjoyed as a nasal snuff, the tobacco has to be fine and powdery to a greater or lesser degree. An example of a very dry, very fine snuff are those produced in the United States (such as Swisher Sweet, US Smokeless, Conwood or FUBAR products) and British snuffs (Wilson Sharrows, McChrystals). Examples of snuffs that are more moist in character are the German snuffs (Pöschl, Bernard), often characterized by the German term schmalzers.
Flavors?
There are literally hundreds of different flavors of snuff. Whether you like fruits, spices, menthol or just a good leathery tobacco aroma on the palate, the sky is the limit. One interesting aspect of snuff is that because snuff is in loose powder form, they can be mixed to create your own recipe (for further information, follow the “Recipes and Blends” category on this blog).
Medicated Snuff?
Some snuffs are described as being medicated. What this means is that these snuffs contain crystalline menthol, eucalyptus oils or camphor, all of which have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. According to historians, medicated snuffs have been used throughout the centuries to help treat head colds, not only for the decongestant qualities but because it was believed that snuff helped keep dust and other particles from sticking to the nasal mucous membranes. Many modern snuff producers offer medicated snuffs, including McChrystals Highland Mint, Poeschl’s Ozona products or FUBAR’s Medic blend.
Herbal Snuff?
Not all snuff is tobacco based. There are herbal blends on the market as well. These blends can be made from herbs, coffee, guarana or any number of non-tobacco products. Thailand offers many herbal snuff blends, as well as offerings from Bernard and Wilson Sharrow.
Worldwide!
Snuff is produced in countries worldwide, from the US to India, England to Germany. Each country or region has its own variety and variations on their production and blends.
WNC Snuff Box 