In recent months, the topic of youth vaping has garnered considerable attention. The government's consultation on this matter, initiated in April 2023, aimed to reduce the access and usage of vaping products among individuals under 18, while ensuring these products remain readily available for adult smokers seeking a cessation tool. The consultation sparked widespread discussion and invited numerous responses. In this article, we at Riot Eliquid will provide our perspective on this important issue, echoing the views presented by the esteemed Royal College of Physicians (RCP) in their response to the consultation.
Our Stand on the Government's Youth Vaping Consultation
Riot Eliquid has always been at the forefront of advocating for responsible and informed vaping. In line with this commitment, we have closely followed the government's consultation on youth vaping, launched in April 2023. The consultation sought to strike a balance between reducing vape product usage among individuals under 18, while maintaining easy access for adult smokers using these products as a cessation aid.
E-cigarettes: A Powerful Tool for Smoking Cessation
At Riot Eliquid, we align with the Royal College of Physicians' stance on vaping. As outlined in their "Smoking and Health 2021" report, e-cigarettes prove to be an effective intervention for tobacco dependence. This report also emphasises the need for mass media campaigns to endorse e-cigarettes as a viable smoking substitute and to debunk misconceptions regarding e-cigarette safety relative to traditional cigarettes.
Key Points from Our Perspective on Youth Vaping Consultation
We fully back the government's decision to prohibit the distribution of free vaping products to individuals under 18. This move effectively closes a legal loophole that previously allowed children to obtain vapes without cost.
Supporting the recommendations put forth by ASH, we also agree on the need to increase the price of disposable vaping products, which are frequently used by minors. However, we caution against broad restrictions on regulated vaping products, as this could unintentionally limit access for those attempting to quit smoking or prevent relapses among former smokers.
Addressing the issue of illicit vape sales to children and the purchasing of such products by children themselves is crucial. This can be achieved through bolstering local authority trading standard services, which have experienced funding cuts over the years. While we welcome the Public Health Minister's announcement of further investment in these services, we believe a larger, sustained investment is necessary to address the pervasive issue of underage vape sales and illicit vaping products.
It's also important to note the significant reduction in smoking among children over the past decade. Evidence indicates that children are more likely to take up smoking if they have smoking parents or other household members.
Consequently, we must consider the potential unintended consequences of reducing adult quit rates by restricting access to vaping products for adults using them to quit smoking.
Lastly, we do not recommend limiting the variety of flavours available to adults. Adult smokers seeking to quit often find that using flavoured vaping products significantly enhances their quit journey. Thus, the range of flavours plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of vaping as a smoking cessation aid.
Join Us in the Movement Towards a Smoke-Free World
At Riot Eliquid, we are not merely a company offering products; we are a movement striving for a smoke-free world. We firmly believe in empowering individuals to take control of their lives and break free from the grips of addiction. Join us in our mission to create a healthier future where every breath is a victory. This is our vision, our mission, and our call to action. Quit smoking, change your life, change the world.
