“UK Urged to Ban ‘Monster Vape’ Kits with Equivalent Puff-Power of 8,000 Cigarettes”
A senior MP, Dr Beccy Cooper, is advocating for the prohibition of “monster vape” kits in the UK that are capable of delivering over 8,000 puffs, equating to more than 100,000 cigarettes, exploiting legal loopholes in the Tobacco & Vapes Bill.
The surge in popularity of these kits comes after the UK government’s ban on disposable vapes last year. Dr. Cooper emphasized that these high-puff devices circumvent regulations on tank size and disposable vapes, posing significant public health risks.
She stressed the need to address regulatory gaps through the Tobacco and Vapes Bill to ensure that such products are not available in the UK market. While acknowledging the potential of vapes in smoking cessation, she cautioned that ultra-high-puff devices undermine efforts towards a smoke-free Britain.
Campaigners have raised concerns about manufacturers exploiting regulations by incorporating multiple 2ml tanks in a single vape device, surpassing the permitted nicotine e-liquid capacity. Studies indicate a significant market share for mega-puff devices even before the disposable vape ban.
Advocacy group Material Focus has warned about the environmental impact and cost-effectiveness of “big puff” vapes compared to disposable options. Despite meeting reusable criteria, these kits may discourage reusability, contrary to the intentions behind the disposable vape ban.
The ongoing debate surrounding vaping underscores its potential as a smoking cessation aid, although the long-term health implications remain uncertain. Health experts advise against vaping for non-smokers and minors.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently under review in the House of Lords, aims to restrict cigarette purchases for individuals born after January 1, 2009.