Alternative Tobacco Products Gain Popularity, One Reason Being Minimal Smoke Odour

Alternative tobacco products have become increasingly popular among some adult smokers in recent years. The emergence of new technologies offering a different experience compared to conventional cigarettes is one of the factors driving this shift in consumer preference.

One of the most highlighted reasons is the minimal smoke odour produced. Unlike conventional cigarettes that burn tobacco to produce smoke and aromas that can cling to clothing and the surrounding environment, heated tobacco products operate without a combustion process. Consequently, the remaining aroma tends to be lighter than that of regular cigarettes.

In addition to reducing odour, alternative tobacco products do not produce ash. This factor is considered to provide greater convenience for some users, as they do not have to deal with cigarette ash residue that can dirty the surrounding area. The ease of use and increasingly modern device designs also serve as significant attractions for adult consumers.

Several studies indicate that technological innovation is a crucial factor influencing interest in alternative tobacco products. A study published in the Accounting and Management Journal in 2024 found that perceptions of innovation, user experience, and product characteristics influence the decisions of adult smokers to try or switch to alternatives to conventional cigarettes.

Social factors also play a role in changing consumer behaviour. The smell of cigarette smoke, which is a frequent complaint in workplaces, transport, and shared spaces, leads some adult smokers to seek options considered more comfortable for themselves and those around them. Alternative tobacco products have emerged as a widely considered option.

Nevertheless, experts warn that alternative tobacco products still contain addictive nicotine. Therefore, these products are not without risk and are intended only for adult smokers who choose to continue using nicotine-based products.

The increasing trend in the use of alternative tobacco indicates a shift in consumption patterns among adult smokers. Beyond technological innovation, aspects of convenience—such as minimal smoke odour, no ash production, and ease of use—are several reasons why these products are gaining more attention in various countries, including Indonesia.