Cytrel is a cellulose-based tobacco substitute used in some low-tar cigarette brands.
Development began on a replacement for tobacco in cigarettes in the 1950s, to reduce undesirable tobacco smoke components present in cigarettes.
Cytrel was developed by Celanese Fiber Marketing Company.
The fiber underwent a challenging development phase, during which scientists faced difficulties in achieving satisfactory smoking characteristics, taste, and manufacturing properties.
Despite these challenges, the product proved to be less dense than tobacco and useful as a bulking agent, prompting further development efforts.