What are your thoughts on heated tobacco being included in the proposed generational smoking ban?
“I would have thought twice about switching if it seemed like heated tobacco was the same as smoking. I wouldn’t have bothered. I would have continued doing what I was doing.” – James, 31
Many of those we spoke to expressed concerns about the proposed generational smoking ban. A majority felt equating cigarettes with heated tobacco would confuse adult smokers about the harm associated and could ultimately prevent them from making a better choice.
Why do you think the government has included heated tobacco in the proposed generational smoking ban?
“Do I have a theory as to why the government has included heated tobacco in their proposed ban? Honestly, I think it's a lack of knowledge about what the product is. They need to understand that it's a different product.” – Louie, 30
The former smokers we spoke with felt that the decision to include heated tobacco was the result of misinformation, or a lack of knowledge about the primary cause of smoking-related harm, but that a better understanding could help to shape the right regulatory framework.
Did you try other smoke-free alternatives?
“Before I got into heated tobacco, I tried electronic cigarettes and vaping, which to be honest, didn’t satisfy me. I was happy to look at heated tobacco based on other alternatives not being up to scratch for me.” - Marcus, 51
Like Marcus, many had previously tried to leave cigarettes behind using other smoke-free products, without success, until they discovered or were recommended heated tobacco.
CAN ONE SMOKE-FREE SOLUTION WORK FOR EVERYONE?
“There should be various types of smoke-free alternatives for everyone.” - Asli, 35
Each person felt strongly that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all' solution for smokers, and that a portfolio of scientifically substantiated smoke-free products including heated tobacco, vapes and nicotine pouches is needed to help people leave cigarettes behind for good.
73% of adult smokers who switched to our leading brand of heated tobacco stopped smoking cigarettes for good.* Yet some people still think cigarettes and heated tobacco products have the same risk. This is wrong. False information confuses current smokers who are looking for better alternatives.
Heated tobacco and cigarettes are NOT the same. Unlike cigarettes, heated tobacco does not burn or produce smoke, which means it can be a far better choice than continuing to smoke. Smoke is the primary cause of smoking-related diseases, not nicotine. The absence of smoke means that heated tobacco products, whilst not risk-free and addictive, can significantly reduce the average levels of harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes.
These testimonials are from REAL UK adult smokers who have successfully left cigarettes behind and now exclusively use heated tobacco products. Contributors were paid for their time and travel expenses.
*PMI, 2023 Q4 & Full Year Results