Flavored Vaping Ban: A Death Knell for the Industry, Warns Retailer

As the UK government considers a ban on fruit and candy-flavored disposable e-cigarettes, one retailer warns that such a move would lead to the collapse of the vaping industry. Andy Connellan, the owner of Connect 2 Vapes in Worcester, argues that rather than targeting sweet-flavored disposable vapes, the government should enforce existing laws regarding their sale to under-age children.

According to a report in The Sun, ministers are considering a range of measures to curb the reported rise in the use of e-cigarettes among 11 to 15-year-olds in England, including a ban on exotic flavors. However, Connellan maintains that such a move would only “kill the industry.”

Current Usage and Sales to Minors

The latest data reveals that the reported usage of e-cigarettes has risen to 9% among 11 to 15-year-olds in England. Although it is illegal to sell vapes to minors, the problem lies with enforcing this law. Connellan argues that trading standards have not enforced this law, which has allowed retailers to sell vapes to minors with ease.

The Need for Enforcement, Not Ban

Instead of imposing a blanket ban on flavored e-cigarettes, Connellan suggests that the government should prioritize enforcing existing laws on their sale to minors. He believes that this will help address the rise in youth vaping, especially around disposable products. By doing so, the government will also ensure that the industry continues to thrive.

The Potential Impact of a Ban

A ban on exotic flavors of disposable e-cigarettes will have far-reaching implications. It will not only kill the industry, but it will also deny adults who use e-cigarettes as a tool to quit smoking the opportunity to enjoy flavors that help them transition away from smoking. Moreover, as a less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes, vapes remain a popular choice among adults.

The Health Benefits of Vaping

The NHS recognizes that e-cigarettes can help adults quit smoking. The devices allow users to inhale nicotine in a vapour form rather than smoke, reducing the harm caused by tobacco smoke. Although vapes still contain small amounts of chemicals, including nicotine, they are considered less harmful than smoking cigarettes. While the long-term effects of vaping remain unknown, there is no denying that they have helped countless people quit smoking.

While the government’s concerns about youth vaping are valid, a ban on exotic flavors of disposable e-cigarettes is not the solution. Rather than killing the industry and denying adults the health benefits of vaping, the government should prioritize enforcing existing laws on the sale of e-cigarettes to minors. By doing so, they can curb the rise in youth vaping and ensure that the industry continues to thrive.