What Shisha Tobacco is Made Of
Ever wondered what goes into the tobacco you enjoy during a shisha session? Premium shisha tobacco, commonly known as mu'assel (which translates to "honeyed" in Arabic), is a carefully crafted blend of ingredients that work together to produce those thick, flavourful clouds we all love.
The base of all shisha tobacco is, of course, tobacco leaf. The most commonly used varieties are Virginia and Burley tobacco, chosen for their mild flavour and ability to absorb moisture. The leaves are washed multiple times to reduce nicotine content and bitterness, resulting in a smoother smoking experience compared to dry tobacco products.
Glycerine is the next crucial ingredient. This food-grade vegetable glycerine is what produces the thick, dense clouds that make shisha so visually satisfying. Higher quality brands use more glycerine, which is why premium tobaccos tend to produce significantly more smoke than budget alternatives.
Molasses or honey is added to give the tobacco its sticky, moist texture and a subtle sweetness. Traditional recipes use actual honey — hence the name mu'assel — though most modern manufacturers use molasses as a more consistent and cost-effective alternative. This moisture is essential for even heat distribution when the tobacco is smoked.
Flavouring is where the magic happens. Premium brands use a combination of natural fruit extracts and food-grade flavourings to create their signature blends. This is what gives Double Apple its distinctive anise-tinged sweetness, or what makes Blueberry Mint taste like a fresh summer drink. The best brands, like those we stock at Empire Shisha Drop, invest heavily in their flavour development to create complex, layered taste profiles.
Some brands also add citric acid or other natural preservatives to extend shelf life and maintain freshness. Proper storage is equally important — shisha tobacco should be kept sealed in a cool, dark place to preserve its moisture and flavour. At Empire Shisha Drop, we rotate our stock regularly to ensure every session uses the freshest tobacco available.
The quality difference between premium and budget shisha tobacco is significant. Premium brands like Al Fakher, Adalya, and Fumari use higher-grade ingredients, more refined flavourings, and better tobacco leaves. This translates to smoother smoke, bolder flavours, and longer-lasting sessions — exactly what we deliver to our customers across Melbourne and Sydney.
Understanding what goes into your shisha tobacco helps you appreciate the craft behind every session. When you book with Empire Shisha Drop, you are getting the best quality tobacco paired with professional setup and service. Call 0475 000 564 (Sydney) or 0405 751 751 (Melbourne) to experience premium shisha at its finest.