Amsterdam:A Dutch anti-smoking foundation is planning to file a criminal complaint against tobacco producer Philip Morris, accusing the company of deception and prohibited advertising related to its IQOS heated tobacco system.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Youth Smoking Prevention Foundation alleges that Philip Morris misleads consumers by promoting IQOS as less harmful compared to conventional cigarettes. The complaint, set to be submitted to the Dutch Public Prosecution Service in mid-November, will also target company executives and scientists who support the product's health claims.

Lawyer Benedicte Ficq, representing the foundation, stated that the heated tobacco product is a new form of deception aimed at sustaining the tobacco industry's business model. While Philip Morris contends that IQOS emits lower concentrations of toxic substances, making it less harmful, the foundation argues that it remains addictive and exposes users to carcinogens.

The Dutch broadcaster NOS noted that the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment does not consider heated tobacco a safe smoking alternative. Several notable Dutch health organizations, including the Netherlands Cancer Institute and the Dutch Cancer Society, support the planned complaint against Philip Morris.

This action follows a previous complaint filed by the foundation and Ficq in 2016, which did not result in criminal prosecution. Ficq believes the new complaint has a stronger case due to its focus on a different product and documented violations.