As a smoker in Australia, it is difficult to find high-quality cigarettes that meet my preferences. The laws and regulations surrounding the tobacco industry have made it challenging to access a wide range of options. Recently, I stumbled upon a new product called IQOS heatsticks cigarettes that caught my attention. After doing some research, I found out that they are considered a revolutionary type of cigarette and have been gaining popularity worldwide. In this article, I will delve into the concept of IQOS heatsticks cigarettes and explore how they differ from traditional cigarettes.

IQOS stands for “I Quit Ordinary Smoking” and is a product developed by Philip Morris International (PMI). It is a heat-not-burn system that uses disposable tobacco sticks specifically designed for the device. Unlike traditional cigarettes, which require combustion to produce smoke, IQOS uses a special heating blade to heat the tobacco sticks up to 350 degrees Celsius, producing an aerosol instead of smoke. This process is said to eliminate up to 95% of harmful substances found in traditional cigarettes, making it a less harmful alternative for smokers.

One of the main advantages of IQOS is its reduced harm potential. PMI claims that by heating the tobacco instead of burning it, there is less exposure to harmful chemicals. The company also states that the tobacco used in the sticks is a specially designed blend that contains less tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) than traditional cigarettes. TSNAs are potent carcinogens found in tobacco that are linked to the development of lung cancer. With IQOS, smokers can potentially reduce their exposure to these harmful substances.

Additionally, IQOS is designed to produce less odor, making it more discreet and potentially more socially acceptable than traditional cigarettes. The lack of ash and cigarette butt also makes it a cleaner choice. As a smoker, these benefits definitely pique my interest. However, it is important to note that IQOS still contains nicotine, which is addictive, and should not be considered a risk-free alternative.

In Australia, IQOS is not yet widely available, but PMI is working on expanding its market. Currently, the device and tobacco sticks can only be purchased through their website or a handful of stores in Melbourne. The price for the device starts at $149 AUD, and the sticks are sold at $13 for a pack of 20. This may seem expensive for a pack of cigarettes, but considering the harm reduction aspect, it may be worth the cost for some smokers.

The unique concept and sleek design of IQOS have garnered mixed opinions from smokers and health advocates. Some see it as a promising step towards reducing the health consequences of smoking, while others view it as a way for tobacco companies to continue selling their products and target a new market. There are also concerns about the potential appeal to non-smokers, especially young adults, due to the variety of flavors available for the tobacco sticks.

In conclusion, IQOS heatsticks cigarettes offer an alternative to traditional cigarettes that claim to have reduced harm potential. The device and sticks are not yet widely available in Australia, but PMI is making efforts to expand their market. The price and the controversial nature of the product may deter some smokers, but for those who are looking for a potentially less harmful option, IQOS may be worth considering. It is important to remember that it still contains nicotine and should not be seen as a risk-free alternative to quitting smoking entirely. Proponents and critics alike continue to follow the development of IQOS and its impact on the tobacco industry and smoking habits. Ultimately, the choice to smoke or not is a personal one and should be made with caution and responsibility.