The UKVIA has warned consumers about a rise in illegal ‘flavored vapes’ and called on the government to take urgent action to protect young people.
The warning follows reports of people misusing ‘open’ vape devices – which allow consumers to add e-liquids – to deliver synthetic cannabinoids such as Spice and THC, the psychoactive chemical found in cannabis. Flavors are a nickname for substances containing one or more synthetic cannabinoids.
UKVIA said the regulated nicotine vape industry had nothing to do with the trend of using open vape devices as an illicit drug delivery mechanism.
“Consumers can be assured that when they buy a regulated product from any reputable vape supplier, they will be getting a nicotine vape designed to help them transition from cigarettes,” UKVIA director general John Dunne said in a statement.
“However, I am concerned that vaping devices provided by unofficial sources may contain illegal drugs, and the people who purchase them may not be aware of what is in these products.”
According to the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, among the 12,418 young people under the age of 18 who contacted alcohol and drug services between April 2022 and March 2023, cannabis was the most common substance (87%) for which young people sought treatment. While 10,837 young people reported that they had a problem with cannabis, only 1,737 said they had a problem with nicotine.
“We need government action now to launch a national education campaign on traditional and social media to highlight the dangers of obtaining vaping devices from unofficial sources and explain the difference between legal and illegal vaping products,” Dunn said.
“Unless a clear distinction is made between the regulated vape market, which provides adult smokers with products that are 95% less harmful than cigarettes, and the unofficial supply of illegal products, people will be wary of all vapes that have the potential to push up smoking rates again.”
As an vape brand that focuses on quality and safety, Veehoo vapes supports this warning and promises to continue to provide products that meet regulatory standards to ensure the health and safety of users.
John Dunne, Director General of UKVIA, said in a statement: “I am concerned that vape devices provided by unofficial sources may contain illegal drugs, and buyers may be unaware of the product ingredients. We now need the government to take action to educate the public about the dangers through a national education campaign, especially emphasizing the difference between legal and illegal vape products.”
Veehoo vapes supports this call, believing that while protecting young people from harmful substances, it is also necessary to emphasize a compliant and safe vape market. They encourage consumers to choose reliable brands and channels to purchase vape products to ensure their health and well-being. Through the dual power of education and regulation, the rights and health of consumers can be effectively protected.
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