Expert comment Last updated 23 May 2023
Dr Salim Khan, Head of Department for Public Health at Birmingham City University, says sellers of illegal vapes and liquids are “most likely oblivious to the harm they cause”.
Speaking in the wake of an investigation into illegal vapes, he added that there may be an assumption that all vapes are manufactured according to quality control standards, yet the truth may be very different.
Dr Khan said: “Clearly, the government must clamp down on illegal production of vape units and e-liquids as they do not conform to regulatory standards.
“As I have highlighted before, we know that there are a lot of people manufacturing vapes and vaping liquids who aren't regulated.
“Now we are seeing the impact. If there is no regulation, there is the potential for a lot of harmful toxins to end up in vapes and these can cause a lot more harm than good.
“Sadly, the providers who sell these illegal vapes and liquids are most likely oblivious to the harm they cause as they may assume they are manufactured according to quality control standards.”
Dr Khan highlighted that other countries are taking very radical approaches to vaping.
“Australia has brought in tough regulation to ban vaping products, unless given on prescription,” he said. “This move will be viewed with interest by other governments, particularly if it results in a reduction in vaping. However, it may also have an adverse effect, pushing people back towards tobacco products.
“China has banned the use of fruit-tasting vapes to deter the younger generation. This appears to be a rational move, as often the younger generation of vapers are attracted to the variety of different flavours and colours.
“A recent report also showed that young children and teenagers in the UK trying vaping has increased more than 50% in the last year. This clearly is of concern, as there is evidence that non-smokers who try vapes may potentially try other products which can lead to addiction.”