Always a Guinnea Pig: What Hoosiers think about Snus

In July 2007, a smokeless, spitless tobacco product called snus was introduced in Central Indiana, one of seven “test market” cities receiving the product. In March 2008, another snus product was released into the Indianapolis market. These snus products are now available nationwide. Two other products are also currently being test marketed in Indianapolis. Analysis of ATS data (2007) reveals that 30% of Central Indiana adults were aware of snus. Males and smokers receiving direct mailings from tobacco companies are more likely to try these products. Ongoing surveillance of marketing and advertising indicate that these products have a growing presence throughout Indiana. Questions about awareness, brand recognition, and ever use of snus were included on the 2008 Indiana ATS. ATS data from 2009 provide reactions to marketing. (Data forthcoming)

Indianapolis is one of three test markets to receive another spitless, smokeless, dissolvable tobacco products beginning in January, 2009. Surveillance of location, marketing, and price of the dissolvable products began this month.

Keeping a close watch on these new products and assessing the consumer response contributes to overall monitoring and surveillance of tobacco product use and consumption. These new products have been aggressively marketed as alternatives when smokers can't smoke (at the workplace, on a plane, at a smoke-free bar or restaurant), potentially leading to dual use. Assessing awareness and receptivity of these new products will help determine the demographics and prior tobacco usage characteristics of individuals most likely to be susceptible to marketing, and most likely to try snus.