A Content Analysis of Nicotine Descriptors on the Front of Vape Packaging in the United Kingdom
2024

Analysis of Nicotine Information on Vape Packaging in the UK

Sample size: 156 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Allison Ford, Anne MacKintosh, Amber Morgan, Daniel Jones, Crawford Moodie, Kate Hunt, Kathryn Angus

Primary Institution: Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling

Hypothesis

How is nicotine content displayed on the front of vape packaging in the United Kingdom?

Conclusion

The study found that while most vape packaging includes some nicotine information, there is significant inconsistency in how this information is presented.

Supporting Evidence

  • 81% of vape packs displayed at least one nicotine descriptor.
  • 69% of packs contained a nicotine-related metric.
  • 36% of packs mentioned nicotine beyond the warning.
  • Only 15% provided a graphic depiction of strength.
  • Many packs displayed metrics or percentages without mentioning nicotine.

Takeaway

This study looked at how vape packages show nicotine information, and found that many packages don't clearly explain how strong the nicotine is.

Methodology

A systematic analysis of a representative selection of vapes and refill packs was conducted to assess compliance with UK regulations.

Limitations

The study focused only on the front of the packaging and may not represent all vape products sold in other jurisdictions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/ntr/ntae168

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