As a resident of the United States, one of the first things I noticed when I travelled abroad was the prevalence of smoking, especially in Europe and Asia. However, with the growing health concerns and restrictions on traditional cigarettes, I was surprised to find that many smokers had switched to alternative, less harmful options such as vapors and heat-not-burn devices. One of the most popular and innovative devices in this category is IQOS. In this article, I will provide an in-depth look into IQOS heatsticks in USA, its features, availability, and impact on the smoking industry.
IQOS (I Quit Original Smoking) is a heat-not-burn device developed by Philip Morris International (PMI) in 2014. The concept behind IQOS is to heat rather than burn the tobacco, which eliminates harmful chemicals produced by the combustion process. This technology has been gaining popularity globally, especially in countries like Japan and South Korea, and recently launched in the USA in 2019. IQOS heatsticks, also known as HEETS, are specially designed tobacco-filled sticks that are heated in the device to create a tobacco aerosol. The device operates by heating the HEETS up to 350 degrees Celsius, which is significantly lower than the 800 degrees produced by a traditional cigarette.
One of the most significant advantages of IQOS heatsticks is the reduced harm compared to traditional cigarettes. According to PMI, IQOS produces 95% less harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes. This is because there is no combustion, and as a result, no smoke is produced. Additionally, the absence of ash and cigarette smoke odor makes IQOS a more appealing option, especially for non-smokers or those around smokers. The FDA has authorized IQOS for sale in the USA, making it the first and only heat-not-burn device to receive such approval.
Another notable benefit of IQOS heatsticks is the cost savings. In the long run, using IQOS can be significantly cheaper than smoking traditional cigarettes. The reason being that HEETS are cheaper than regular cigarettes, and you also need fewer HEETS to get the same amount of nicotine as a traditional cigarette. This is because the tobacco in HEETS is heated and not burned, making it more efficient. In addition, IQOS offers a device replacement program where you can trade in your old device for a discounted price on a new one.
IQOS heatsticks are available in a variety of flavors, such as Bronze, Amber, Yellow, Sienna, and Turquoise. PMI has also introduced limited edition flavors throughout the years, keeping their customers intrigued and satisfied. Each pack contains 20 HEETS, and the device can hold up to 10 sticks, making it convenient to carry around and use. The device has a battery life of up to 14 uses, depending on usage patterns, and takes about four minutes to charge. With the compact and sleek design of the device, it is not surprising that many smokers have made the switch to IQOS.
One of the highlights of IQOS is its easy availability in the USA. Initially, IQOS heatsticks were only available in select cities, but now they are sold online and in over 500 retail locations across the country. This includes several pop-up stores in malls and designated smoke shops. In addition, the IQOS website offers a store locator to help users find the closest retail outlet. However, it is essential to note that IQOS is only available for purchase to adults aged 21 and above.
Despite the numerous benefits of IQOS heatsticks, it has received some criticism for its impact on the smoking industry. Some anti-smoking advocates argue that IQOS could be a gateway for non-smokers to start using tobacco products and undo the progress made in curbing smoking rates. They also raise concerns about how IQOS is marketed, with its claims of being a reduced-risk product, despite not being risk-free. PMI has responded to these concerns by stating that their target audience is adult smokers, and IQOS is intended to be used as an alternative for those who would otherwise continue smoking traditional cigarettes.
In conclusion, IQOS heatsticks are slowly but steadily making their mark in the US smoking market. With its reduced harm, cost savings, and availability, it is no surprise that more and more smokers are making the switch. However, it is also essential to consider the potential impact of IQOS on non-smokers and the overall smoking industry. As IQOS continues to gain popularity, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of smoking in the USA. If you are interested in learning more about IQOS heatsticks in USA, be sure to check out their official website IQOS heatsticks USA and see if it’s the right option for you.