A cigarette provides tobacco flavor by heating tobacco, but not burning tobacco or any other material. A heat source which includes a metal oxide (e.g., calcium oxide), an anhydrous metal sulfate (e.g., magnesium sulfate), an inorganic salt and a sugar, generates heat upon contact of water therewith. The heat produced by the heat source heats tobacco in a heat exchange relationship therewith. Flavors volatilize from the tobacco and are drawn into the mouth of the user of the cigarette. Typical heat sources heat the tobacco to a temperature within 70.degree. C. to 200.degree. C. for 4 to 8 minutes.