Abstract: A filtered cigarette possesses a filter element incorporating activated carbon particles. A preferred filter element incorporates a filter material such as cellulose acetate tow, and that tow is plasticized using triacetin. A mixture of propylene glycol and triacetin is contacted with the activated carbon particles, and those particles so treated are incorporated into the filter element. Alternatively, a mixture of propylene glycol and triacetin is incorporated within the filter element, and a portion of that mixture is in contact with at least a portion of the activated carbon particles.