Abstract
A new procedure (HLC) of curing tobacco leaf through homogenization, incubation, and dehydration is described. At the homogenate stage, chemicaI composition can be improved by controlled enzyme action, by extraction, or with chemical additives. PhysicaI properties can be improved by reconstitution. Preliminary results show HLC may provide smoke with quality comparable to that from conventionally cured material, but with relatively lower biologicaI response. There is a great potential in using the HLC procedure for labour saving as well as for improving leaf usability.