As the United States continues its shift towards a smoke-free future, more and more consumers are turning to alternative tobacco products. One such product that has gained popularity is IQOS, a heat-not-burn device that uses specially designed heatsticks to provide a tobacco experience without the smoke. While the concept of heat-not-burn technology may be new to many Americans, the IQOS system has actually been around for over a decade and is now available in over 50 countries. In this article, I will dive deeper into the world of IQOS heatsticks and discuss where and how to buy IQOS heatsticks in the USA.
What are IQOS heatsticks?
To understand why IQOS heatsticks have gained such a following, it is important to first understand what they are. IQOS heatsticks, also known as HEETS, are tobacco sticks designed specifically for use with the IQOS device. The sticks are roughly the same size and shape as traditional cigarettes, but they are made of compressed tobacco leaves, rather than being filled with chopped tobacco. This is where the term “heat-not-burn” comes into play – rather than burning the tobacco like a traditional cigarette, the IQOS heats the tobacco sticks to create a vapor that is inhaled by the user.
The IQOS device works by inserting the heatstick into the device and pressing a button to activate the heating process. The heatstick contains a filter on the end, similar to a cigarette, and once the heating is complete, the user can draw out the vapor through the filter. The heatsticks come in various flavors, such as original tobacco, menthol, and even citrus, allowing consumers to choose their preferred taste.
Where to buy IQOS heatsticks in the USA?
Before we dive into where to buy IQOS heatsticks in the USA, it is important to note that the sale of these products is restricted to those aged 21 and over. This is in line with the legal age for purchasing traditional tobacco products in most states. Additionally, the sale of IQOS products is only allowed in certain states that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates the marketing and sale of tobacco products in the USA.
Now that we have established the age and location restrictions, let’s discuss where you can buy IQOS heatsticks in the USA. Currently, the only place to buy these heatsticks is online. The official website for IQOS in the USA is https://smokeus.org/, which is where you can purchase the device and heatsticks. However, at the time of writing this article, the website is not yet functional and only offers a sign-up for updates. So, where can you actually get your hands on IQOS heatsticks?
Fortunately, there are a few online retailers that currently offer IQOS heatsticks. These include several third-party websites and even Amazon. However, it is important to note that these are not official retailers and may not have the same quality control and guarantee as the IQOS website. Additionally, these third-party websites may charge a higher price for the products, so it is always recommended to purchase directly from the official website when it becomes available.
One thing to keep in mind when purchasing IQOS heatsticks is that the device and the heatsticks are sold separately. While the device itself is reusable, the heatsticks are single-use and need to be replaced after each use. The current price for a pack of 20 heatsticks ranges from $8-10, depending on the retailer.
Why choose IQOS heatsticks?
With the rise of alternative tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and vaporizers, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider trying IQOS heatsticks:
1. Reduced exposure to harmful chemicals: According to studies conducted by Philip Morris International, the company that produces IQOS, using the device and heatsticks can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. This is due to the fact that the tobacco is not burned, but rather heated to produce a vapor.
2. Similar experience to smoking: Unlike other alternative tobacco products, IQOS heatsticks provide a similar experience to smoking a traditional cigarette. From the size and feel of the heatstick to the sensation of inhaling vapor, users often report that it feels very similar to smoking.
3. Easy to use and maintain: The IQOS device is simple to use and maintain, making it a convenient option for those who are looking to reduce their tobacco consumption. The device comes with a cleaning kit and the heatsticks are easily replaced after each use.
In conclusion, while IQOS heatsticks may not be widely available in the USA just yet, they are gaining a following for their potential as a reduced-risk tobacco product. As more and more states are approved for sales and the official website becomes functional, it will become easier for consumers to purchase this alternative to traditional cigarettes. So, if you are a tobacco user looking to switch to a potentially less harmful option, keep an eye out for the official launch of IQOS in the USA.