What is thuoc lao?

Thuoc lao is a form of smokeless tobacco that is popular in Vietnam and some other Southeast Asian countries. It is made from a mixture of fermented tobacco leaves, lime, and areca nut, which is then packed into a small pipe or rolled into a ball and chewed.

Thuoc lao is known for its powerful and intense flavor, as well as its high nicotine content. It is often used by manual laborers and blue-collar workers to help them stay alert and focused during long hours of work.

Despite its popularity, thuoc lao is considered to be a very unhealthy habit, as it has been linked to a variety of health problems including mouth and throat cancer, tooth decay, and addiction. In recent years, the Vietnamese government has taken steps to regulate the production and sale of thuoc lao in an effort to reduce its use and promote healthier alternatives.