Philip Morris International (PMI) has announced the release of a new tobacco-free pod product designed to be used with their IQOS heating device. The company claims that this device can heat small tobacco pouches, similar to cigarettes, without burning them, resulting in potentially reduced health risks compared to smoking. PMI has developed a range of pods called LEVIA, which they claim do not contain tobacco but instead are infused with a substance called "non-tobacco matrix" that contains nicotine. The flavors available include tobacco, blueberry mint, and mint.
In his investor day report, Jacek Olczak, CEO of PMI International, stated that this product not only offers consumers an alternative to tobacco that they may not wish to use, but also potentially benefits from low-tax policies. Olczak further mentioned that LEVIA may not be subject to flavor regulations in certain jurisdictions and may not fit into existing fiscal categories. He added that PMI is currently in discussions with regulators in target markets regarding how they will address this issue.
The company advocates that, compared to traditional cigarettes, the industry refers to its product as a "reduced-risk" alternative, which can decrease the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals compared to smoking. Therefore, it should enjoy reduced taxation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized PMI to market IQOS. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that there is currently no evidence to suggest that heated tobacco poses lower health risks compared to other tobacco products.
We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.
Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn
Notice
1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.
2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.
4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.
Copyright
This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.
For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.
We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com
