Fanhui

Fanhui refers to the modern Chinese practice of sending one's spent matches or cigarette butts back to the producers after they have been used. This practice is often performed as a means of customer feedback, allowing producers to assess the quality of their products and make changes accordingly.

The practice of fanhui is believed to have originated in the early 2000s, when Chinese cigarette manufacturers began sharing leftover cigarette butts with researchers at academic institutions. These butts were then analyzed for various factors such as the amount of tar, nicotine, and other chemicals present, providing insights into the production process.

Fanhui is typically performed through designated channels, with some cigarette manufacturers, particularly those with internet-based platforms, offering rewards to customers for submitting their spent matches. The platforms may contain digital interfaces for uploading pictures or providing text-based descriptions of the returned materials.

Some Chinese researchers have used fanhui to analyze the chemical composition of returning matches, as well as the temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors surrounding their use. Data collected through fanhui has been used to understand product performance, potentially influencing product design and development. This approach aims to enhance customer satisfaction and provide valuable feedback for manufacturers seeking to improve their products.