Iqos

IQOS heated tobacco devices

Iqos (stylized as IQOS) is a line of heat-not-burn tobacco products manufactured by Philip Morris International. The device is an alternative to traditional cigarettes and is designed to heat specially designed tobacco units called HEETS or HeatSticks, rather than burning them. This process generates a nicotine-containing aerosol with fewer harmful chemicals than cigarette smoke.

History

Iqos was first introduced in Japan and Italy in 2014. Since then, it has been launched in numerous countries worldwide. The product was developed as part of Philip Morris International's efforts to create a smoke-free future by providing less harmful alternatives to smoking.

Technology

The Iqos device consists of three main components:

• The Holder: This is the part of the device where the tobacco unit is inserted and heated.
• The Charger: This is used to recharge the holder after each use.
• The Tobacco Units: These are specially designed tobacco sticks that are heated by the holder.

The device heats the tobacco to a temperature of around 350°C, which is significantly lower than the 600°C to 900°C at which traditional cigarettes burn. This lower temperature reduces the levels of harmful chemicals produced.

Health Impact

While Iqos is marketed as a less harmful alternative to smoking, it is not without risks. The aerosol produced by Iqos contains nicotine, which is addictive, and other potentially harmful chemicals. However, studies have shown that the levels of harmful chemicals are significantly lower than those found in cigarette smoke.

Regulation

Iqos is subject to various regulations depending on the country. In some regions, it is classified similarly to traditional tobacco products, while in others, it is regulated as a separate category. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the marketing of Iqos as a modified risk tobacco product in 2020, recognizing that it could help reduce the risk of smoking-related diseases.

Market Presence

Iqos has gained significant market share in several countries, particularly in Japan, where it has become a popular alternative to traditional cigarettes. The product is also available in many European countries, as well as in Canada, Russia, and other markets.

Controversies

The introduction of Iqos has not been without controversy. Critics argue that the product may attract non-smokers, particularly young people, and could serve as a gateway to traditional smoking. There are also concerns about the long-term health effects of using heat-not-burn products, which are not yet fully understood.

See Also

• Philip Morris International
• Heat-not-burn
• Electronic cigarette
• Nicotine