We have shown, through testing our Tobacco Heating System (THS), that if tobacco is heated above 250 °C, similar amounts of nicotine as those found in cigarette smoke, can be released. At the same time, keeping the temperature low enough means the tobacco is not burned and the levels of HPHCs generated and therefore inhaled are significantly reduced. Our studies have shown an average reduction of 90-95% in the levels of HPHCs measured in the aerosol of THS compared to those found in the smoke of a standard research reference cigarette (3R4F).
Our Nicotine Salts Product (NSP) and MESH Vaping System (MVS) do not contain tobacco and provide nicotine in an alternative way, for example with aerosol formers like glycerol, that are not HPHCs.
These products could, indeed, complement existing tobacco control efforts and be part of an overall harm reduction strategy to benefit public health. In recent years, an increasing number of adult smokers have switched from cigarettes to smoke-free alternatives such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, or oral tobacco products to reduce the risk of harm to their health compared to continued smoking.
While smoke-free products are not risk free and in general contain nicotine which is addictive, switching completely to a scientifically substantiated smoke-free alternative can be a better choice for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke. The risk reduction potential of each product must be scientifically verified on a product by product basis.