Your Questions Answered: Tobacco in E-Cigarettes/Vape
Technology & Research 07/03/2025
Technology & Research 07/03/2025
You probably already know that e-cigarettes/vape may or may not contain nicotine. But where does tobacco fit into this, and how do they differ from traditional cigarettes?
Let’s find out.
(Disclaimer: These products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.)
E-cigarettes/vapes are innovative devices designed to produce vapour by heating e-liquids. Unlike traditional cigarettes which burn tobacco to produce smoke, e-cigarettes/vapes vaporize e-liquids, resulting in a flavoured vapour without relying on combustion.
A common misconception people often have about e-cigarettes/vapes is that they contain tobacco. The truth is, they don't.
E-liquids, the substance used in e-cigarettes/vapes, do not have tobacco as an ingredient. Instead, they usually contain nicotine, which is derived from tobacco. It is the absence of actual tobacco that sets e-cigarette/vape apart from traditional cigarettes.
This confusion often arises because some e-liquids include tobacco-derived flavours. These flavours mimic the taste of tobacco without involving the harmful combustion process. Additionally, some alternatives, like heat-not-burn products, use real tobacco but operate differently from e-cigarettes/vapes by heating the tobacco rather than burning it.
There are smoke-free alternatives that heat real, specially processed tobacco to release nicotine-infused vapour without producing smoke or ash, offering a different experience from both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes/vapes.
While e-cigarettes/vapes do not contain tobacco, they often contain nicotine, an addictive substance found in tobacco. Nicotine levels in e-liquids can vary, allowing users to choose their preferred strength. It’s important to note that nicotine use carries risks, and the best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether.
In summary, e-cigarettes/vapes do not contain tobacco but may contain nicotine. They offer a cleaner, customisable experience compared to traditional smoking. However, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and be aware of the potential risks associated with nicotine. For those who do not use nicotine products, it’s best not to start, and for current users, quitting remains the healthiest option.
(Disclaimer: This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.)
These products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.
These products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.
© 2025 Philip Morris (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd - 199301023745 - All rights reserved.
IQOS ILUMA heats tobacco, not liquid. Enter your month and year of birth to confirm that you are 18 years old or over and a smoker.
IQOS ILUMA heats tobacco, not liquid. Enter your month and year of birth to confirm that you are 18 years old or over and a smoker.
Are you 18 years old or over and living in Malaysia?
The website contains information about Philip Morris International smoke-free products, which are exclusively for adults in Malaysia who would otherwise continue to use other nicotine products. Smoke-free products are not an alternative to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids. They are not-risk free and contain nicotine, which is addictive. Only use by adults. Please visit important information page for further risk information. By continuing to use the website, you confirm that you have read and accepted our Terms of Use & Privacy Notice.
Country redirect
Please note this site is intended for Malaysia. In order to ensure compliance with local legal requirement, we need to redirect you to your country of origin.
CONTINUE