Abstract: A composition for use as a snuff or chew and providing a sustained organoleptic bite, including a nicotine-free herbal component made of alfalfa, either alone or in combination with chicory, clover or mixtures thereof, as well as a casing material, serving to moisten, sweeten, and provide flavor to the herbal component and to keep the herbal component as a coherent cud in the mouth during use. The casing material also includes cayenne pepper in amounts providing a satisfactory approximation of the bite of a tobacco containing composition. Also, a method for preparing such compositions, involving at least two separate applications of cayenne pepper to alfalfa-based herbal mixtures for use as a snuff or chew.