Cigarettes are formed from tobacco filler which is at a temperature in excess of approximately 35.degree. Celsius and having an elevated moisture content. For example, particles of tobacco filler having an elevated moisture content of approximately 13.5% to approximately 17% are heated by being exposed to a source of heat having a temperature of between approximately 35.degree. and approximately 60.degree. Celsius before being formed into tobacco rods. Preferably a temperature range of between approximately 43.degree. and approximately 52.degree. Celsius is employed. The heating source can be selected from infrared radiation sources, hot water jackets, heating coils, microwave radiation sources or air heated by any one or more of the foregoing. The heating process can take place during the acceleration of the tobacco filler particles from the distributor up to the permeable rod conveyor belt or from the tobacco feeding system supplying the distributor.