What is in e-liquid?

We delve into the ingredients in your liquids

E-liquid, also known as vape juice, is the fluid that is used universally in electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. 

Nicotine in e-liquids is the same addictive chemical that is found in every traditional combustible cigarette. 

However, it’s important to note that while nicotine is an addictive substance, it’s relatively harmless to health. 

The composition of e-liquid is heavily regulated to ensure safety and quality, particularly in countries like the UK and across Europe.

The primary ingredients in regulated e-liquid are propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), nicotine, and flavourings. 

PG and VG are odourless liquids that produce the vapour when heated, they also carry the nicotine and flavourings into the vapour. 

The ratio of PG to VG can vary, but common proportions are 70% VG to 30% PG, 60% VG to 40% PG, and 50% VG to 50% PG.

PG is a synthetic organic compound used because of its ability to produce a strong throat hit, similar to traditional cigarettes. 

It’s also a carrier for the flavourings. VG, on the other hand, is a natural organic compound derived from vegetable oils. 

It’s thicker than PG and produces denser, more voluminous clouds of vapour, whereas VG imparts a slightly sweet taste to the e-liquid.

It does not cause cancer, lung disease, heart disease, or stroke, and has been used safely for many years in medicines to help people stop smoking.

Flavourings in e-liquids are the same as those used in food products and are safe to consume. 

Regulations also exist to ensure the safety and quality of e-liquids, in the UK, for instance, e-cigarette tanks are restricted to a capacity of no more than 2ml, and the maximum volume of nicotine-containing e-liquid for sale in one refill container is restricted to 10ml. 

E-liquids are also restricted to a nicotine strength of no more than 20mg/ml…additionally, nicotine-containing products or their packaging must be child-resistant and tamper-evident.

In conclusion, regulated e-liquids contain a combination of PG, VG, nicotine, and flavourings, with specific ingredients and proportions maintained for safety and quality. 

These regulations help ensure that consumers can make informed choices and that the environment is protected from potential harm.