Why E-liquids Will Never Be Banned In The UK
E-liquids, the substance used in electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), have become a mainstay and a significant part of the vaping industry. Of course, they are not without controversy. If you keep up to date with vaping news you will have seen some regions discussing bans on disposables and e-liquids - but if you are partial to a vaping session, you needn't worry that e-liquids may be prohibited.
These reasons range from public health considerations and economic factors to regulatory frameworks and harm reduction strategies. But if you’re a keen vaper from the UK, you can sleep comfortably knowing the worst case scenario is likely to remain just that - a scenario.
Here’s why e-liquids are never likely to be banned in the UK;
Table of Contents
NHS Recommends E-cigarettes As A Quitting Tool
The Government Endorses Vaping
The UK Follows Strict TPD/TRPR Regulations
Majority Of The UK Supports Vaping
Scientific Research
Let’s start with the most important point. Ongoing scientific research continues to support the relative safety of e-liquids compared to smoking. Studies from reputable institutions and health bodies provide growing evidence that vaping is a valuable tool for smoking cessation, as well as harm reduction. As it stands, vaping is still substantially less harmful than smoking - this is likely to contribute to the continuing legality of e-liquids.
The NHS Recommends E-cigarettes As A Quitting Tool
In 2015 and again in 2018, Public Health England (PHE) published two comprehensive reviews which evidenced that e-cigarettes are in fact 95% safer than cigarettes. The professional backing for vaping has continued to build - in February 2021, PHE revealed further proof that vaping devices are more effective than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which was once thought to be the best smoking cessation tool.
Even more promising is a recent study from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) which has found that regular e-cigarette use among underage people in the UK remains at an encouragingly low level, particularly for those who have never smoked before. Another huge win for the vaping community has been the rollout of free e-cigarettes in emergency departments in 2021. This saw hospitals in London, Edinburgh, Norfolk and Leicester give out vaping starter packs alongside continuing support to help people quit. With new vaping devices being released seemingly every year, it's safe to say the future of vaping in the UK looks safe.
The Government Endorses Vaping
Alongside the NHS, the UK government continues to demystify vaping and echo its effectiveness as a quitting aid. In October 2021, the UK government even revealed plans to consider prescribing e-cigarettes via the NHS, which will be a world-first milestone for vaping should it come into place. The UK government has set a goal for England to be smoke free by 2030, and one key way to achieve this is by keeping vaping devices and a vast choice of e-liquid flavours accessible to those who wish to quit.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock recently, you will have seen that the labour party won the UK general election by a landslide. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak once controversially announced a ban on vapes in the UK. With a new party in power, it will certainly be interesting to see their stance on vaping. Or perhaps the new powers that be will focus on more pressing matters.
The UK Follows Strict TPD/TRPR Regulations
For maximum safety, all e-liquids are stringently regulated in the UK under the latest TPD/TRPR (Tobacco Product Directive/Tobacco and Related Products Regulations).TPD/TRPR in the UK state that all e-liquids containing nicotine cannot exceed a size capacity over 10ml and a nicotine strength over 20mg, regardless of flavour. Simply put, products that do not meet the regulations, will not be sold legally.
All e-liquids sold in the UK must also contain nicotine warning stickers alongside childproof caps/nozzles. Moreover, vaping devices and e-liquid flavours cannot be purchased by or sold to anyone below the age of 18, meaning age verification is a legal requirement for all vape stores. These strict compliance measures ensure that people are allowed to vape responsibly with confidence, all while preventing products from falling into the wrong hands. In other words, the UK has among the most trustworthy compliance measures in the world!
As long as the UK continues to impose non-negotiable vaping laws, it is likely we will continue to see the vaping industry thrive on these shores. The benefits of vaping continue to outweigh the negatives.
The Majority Of The UK Supports Vaping
Within recent years, both the popularity and social acceptance of vaping have increased dramatically, showing no signs of stopping. Vaping has transitioned from a niche activity and smoking cessation method, to a mainstream practice, embraced by a wide range of people looking for an alternative to traditional smoking. What’s more, careers have been born from the rise of vaping. With influencers and of course, manufacturers, all earning an enviable living.
This shift in perception is backed by significant data. For instance, in 2021, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reported that over 93% of the general population has heard of vaping, a substantial increase from just 49% in 2012. This remarkable rise in awareness reflects a broader cultural shift and growing acceptance of vaping as a viable smoking alternative.
Keeping with ASH, in 2021 it was reported that there are currently over 3.6 million adult vapers in England. This figure represents a significant portion of the population and highlights the growing trend of individuals choosing vaping over smoking. There is strength in numbers. Imposing a ban on e-liquids would cause quite the uproar.
There are around 7 million smokers in England, further emphasising the impact vaping has had on the nation. The number of vapers is not just a statistic; it signifies a potential turning point in public health efforts to reduce smoking rates. This shift towards vaping is particularly encouraging for the vaping community, as it indicates a collective move towards harm reduction and a healthier lifestyle. Making the country somewhat healthier simply cannot be viewed as a negative.
The increasing number of vapers also suggests that public health campaigns and educational efforts about the benefits of vaping are having a positive effect. More people are becoming informed about the relative safety of vaping compared to smoking, which is likely contributing to its growing acceptance and popularity. Smoking doesn’t just damage the life of the user, but potentially multiple lives surrounding them.
Additionally, the availability of a wide range of e-liquid flavours and vaping devices has made it easier for smokers to find a vaping option that suits their preferences, further boosting the appeal of vaping.
The dramatic rise in vaping’s popularity and social acceptance over the past decade is a testament to its potential as a less harmful alternative to smoking. With over 3.6 million adult vapers in England, there is a promising trend towards reduced smoking rates and improved public health.
Keep Calm and Vape
The likelihood of e-liquids being banned in the UK is extremely low, given the multitude of factors supporting their continued availability. Public health considerations, economic benefits, a robust regulatory framework, harm reduction strategies, market demand, international trends, scientific consensus, advocacy, and public opinion all contribute to the strong case for keeping e-liquids legal and regulated.
In summary, you can rest assured you will be able to enjoy e-liquids for the foreseeable future. There are many factors in favour of the continuation of e-liquids and very few that state otherwise.
Debunking Vaping Myths
Frequently Asked Questions
Are e-liquids banned in the UK?
What are the current UK regulations on e-liquids?
Why is vaping considered safer than smoking?
How does the UK government view vaping?
What are the benefits of e-liquids over traditional cigarettes?
- Reduced Harm: E-liquids lack the tar and many of the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke, leading to a lower risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Variety of Flavors: E-liquids come in numerous flavours, enhancing the vaping experience and helping smokers find alternatives to the taste of tobacco.
- Controlled Nicotine Intake: Vapers can choose e-liquids with varying nicotine strengths, allowing for more control over nicotine consumption and aiding in gradual reduction if desired.
- No Combustion: Vaping eliminates the harmful byproducts of combustion, such as carbon monoxide and tar, significantly reducing health risks.
- Odour: E-liquids produce vapour that typically has a pleasant smell and dissipates quickly, unlike the lingering odour of cigarette smoke.
- Cost-Effective: Over time, vaping can be more cost-effective than smoking, especially with the availability of refillable devices and e-liquids in bulk.