U.S. panel doubts benefits of heated tobacco device

U.S. government experts rejected a proposal from Philip Morris International to sell its “heat-not-burn” tobacco device as an alternative to cigarettes that reduces disease.

The panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration endorsed a lesser claim that the product reduces exposure to harmful chemicals in cigarettes. The mixed review suggests Philip Morris will be able to market its device to U.S. smokers but on limited terms. The panel’s opinion is nonbinding, and the FDA will make a final decision in coming months.