The Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee (TPSAC) has concluded that evidence does not support Philip Morris International’s (PMI) claim that its heat-not-burn product reduces harm, Reuters reported.

However, the committee has also concluded that the produce emits less harmful chemicals than conventional cigarettes. the TPSAC said that less chemical exposure does not translate into reduced risk of tobacco-related diseases or death, Reuters reported.
Furthermore, some committee members debated if the chemicals found in iQOS were really lower than in conventional cigarettes.
The FDA does not have to follow the recommendation of the committee and it will decide separately if the product will be sold in the United States.
Corey Henry, a Philip Morris spokesperson, said, “We are confident in our ability to address the valid questions raised by the Committee with the FDA as the review process for our application continues.” There are approximately 4 million iQOS users outside of the United States.
On Thursday, PM’s shares dropped by 2.8 percent to close at USD 107.49, Reuters reported.