Abstract: The present invention preferably relates to the use of an impact modifying agent and in particular the use of levulinic acid, a carbohydrate ester acetate or a carbohydrate ester levulinate in one or more of the component parts of a smoking article comprising a carbonaceous fuel element and a physically separate non-burning charge of tobacco or tobacco extract which article is capable of producing substantial quantities of aerosol, both initially and over the useful life of the product, without significant thermal degradation of the aerosol former and without the presence of substantial pyrolysis or incomplete combustion products or sidestream aerosol. The use of an impact modifying agent in smoking articles in accordance with the present invention provides the user with the sensations and benefits of cigarette smoking without burning tobacco and without the undesirable impact or off-taste commonly found in previous smoking articles.