Expanded Stem (ES) is considered as one of the main tools for reducing harm of tobacco products. Expanded Stem are rolled, flattened, and shredded tobacco leaf stems that are expanded by being soaked in water and rapidly heated. Then it is dried. The rate of Expanded Stems with absolutely neutral taste in cigarettes may increase up to 30% without creating a negative after taste or change in blend characteristics. It can also be used as a means for reducing standard ISO tar and nicotine yields. Expanded Stem, in particular, imparts firmness to tobacco rods.