Vape law loopholes exploited

One in 12 independent convenience stores are selling products in breach of the legal e-liquid limit

10 August 2023

1 min read

Several disposable vaping brands are using new designs and technology to offer more than 600 puffs while staying under the 2ml e-liquid per tank legal limit.

Under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), e-cigarette tanks including those on disposables must have a capacity of no more than 2ml of e-liquid, usually equivalent to 500-to-600 puffs.

However, new products like IVG 2,400 puff are claimed to be legal to sell. The lines are registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the brand claims to have been approved by Trading Standards.

Each device features four 2ml tanks to overcome the limit. Happy Vibes Twist 3,500 uses the same loophole, while BAT’s Vuse Go claims to offer 800 puffs while also being MHRA registered and TPD compliant.

The developments caused confusion among shop owners, who have been told for more than a year by suppliers and trade bodies to avoid products with more than 600 puffs.

Stores are still advised to check that all new vaping products are registered with the MHRA, and to demand proof that any product offering more than 600 puffs does not contain individual tanks with more than 2ml e-liquid in.

One in 12 independent convenience stores are selling products in breach of the legal limit, most commonly the Elux Legend 3,500 puff range, despite it being illegal to sell in the UK.

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