Menthol cigarettes have been a popular choice among smokers for years, primarily due to the cooling sensation they provide. However, the UK government has recently prohibited the sale of menthol cigarettes, citing the fact that the minty flavoring can make smoking more appealing and make it easier for people to start smoking. So, what are the alternatives to menthol cigarettes in the UK as of 2023?
Why Are Menthol Cigarettes Banned in the UK?
Menthol cigarettes were banned as part of the EU Tobacco Products Directive, which came into effect on May 20th, 2020. The directive aims to make smoking less appealing, particularly to young people, by banning certain flavored cigarettes, including menthol. It also aims to reduce the number of people who smoke by regulating tobacco products more strictly.
Smokers loved menthol cigarettes simply because the minty aroma made smoking more pleasant. It masked the harshness of tobacco smoke, making it easier for people to inhale it. The EU’s reasoning in the directive is that it makes smoking more appealing and can lead to people starting to smoke who might not have done so otherwise.
The Best Alternatives to Menthol Cigarettes
If you’re a smoker who used to enjoy menthol cigarettes, don’t despair. There are alternative options available that can give you a similar experience.
Vaping
Vaping has gained massive popularity in recent years. It involves heating a liquid (usually containing nicotine) into a vapor that is then inhaled. Vaping allows you to get your nicotine fix without consuming tobacco smoke, which is why many people find it a more appealing alternative.
There are many different types of e-cigarettes and vaping devices available, so it’s essential to find one that works for you. Many e-cigarette manufacturers produce mint-flavored vape juice, which can provide a similar experience to smoking menthol cigarettes.
Heated Tobacco
Heated tobacco products are another alternative to traditional cigarettes. They heat tobacco instead of burning it, which produces inhalable vapor. Heated tobacco is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, as it produces fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes.
Some such products are also menthol-flavored, providing a similar experience to smoking menthol cigarettes. However, it’s important to note that heated tobacco products still contain nicotine and are not risk-free.
NEAFS Sticks
Our ingredients of choice are naturally-sourced, premium plant-derived materials. This approach further reduces the health risks, as it doesn’t contain nearly as many toxic chemicals as mass-produced tobacco.
We offer a wide range of flavors, including menthol, but also blueberry, coffee, and mojito. Moreover, our sticks are compatible with other devices used for heating tobacco, so if you already own one of them, there is no need to purchase the dedicated TEO device.
The Bottom Line
Menthol cigarettes are no longer available in the UK, but there are many alternative options available for smokers who enjoyed the menthol flavor. Vaping and heated tobacco products are both viable options that can provide a similar experience to smoking without inhaling the harmful tobacco smoke.
If you’re looking for an alternative to menthol cigarettes, it’s important to do your research and find a product that works for you after considering the risks associated with either one of them. Ultimately, the best way to protect your health is to quit smoking altogether. If you’re struggling to quit, consider seeking help from your healthcare provider or a smoking cessation program.
