Menthol Cigarette Gives Rise to Non-Menthol Versions

Non-menthol versions of a previously exclusively menthol cigarette brand are due to go on sale in Japan next month.

Japan Tobacco Inc said today that it planned to launch Pianissimo Precia Temore 6 and Pianissimo Precia Temore One in the Tokyo, Aichi and Toyama prefectures in late July.

Pianissimo's first non-menthol products are being presented under the tagline, Special cigarettes for special moments.

'With a product line-up that offers flavors, aromas, functions and designs that satisfy a variety of tastes, Pianissimo is popular with a wide range of consumers, JT said in a note posted on its website. 'Now, for it to be enjoyed by even more smokers, JT is launching the first non-menthol products under the brand.

'Pianissimo Precia Temore 6 and Pianissimo Precia Temore One are super slim products, whose every detail, from aroma to packaging, has been given the utmost attention. A capsule is built into the filter, allowing consumers to enjoy two sensations with one cigarette. Before the capsule is crushed a smooth and full sensation can be enjoyed. Crushing the capsule brings out the rich, graceful aroma that spreads out over the palate. LSS [less smoke smell] technologies have also been incorporated to reduce the smoke smell.

'The packages feature a warm base color that matches the flavors of the products and the gold accessories common to the Precia series. A number of other embellishments have been added, resulting in a distinctly elegant look. Moreover, these are easy-to-carry thin packages that are only possible with super-slim size cigarettes.'