Labelling and composition of contraband electronic cigarettes: Analysis of products from Australia

Abstract

Background: The sale of nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is prescription only in Australia, regulated under the TGO110. Australian e-cigarette users, however, are purchasing e-cigarette products outside of the intended pathways. Methods: The labelling of e-cigarette packaging (N=388 boxes) and the chemical composition of disposable e-cigarettes and pods (N=428) were analysed for adherence to the current Australian regulations. These samples were obtained from over-the-counter retailers in NSW. Results: Following the announcement of the prescription only model for nicotine-containing e-cigarettes in Australia in mid 2021 there was a clear shift in the labelling of products. Any mention of the word ‘nicotine’ was removed from e-cigarette packaging by early 2022 and nicotine warnings were replaced with generic underage sale warnings. Despite this labelling the vast majority (98.8%) of devices analysed contained nicotine, most (89%) at high concentration (>30 mg/mL) and 4.2% contained at least one chemical prohibited by the TGO110. Conclusions: Manufacturers have removed any mention of nicotine from the original e-cigarette packaging to circumvent regulations and continue their sale. The packaging of e-cigarette products in Australia is generally not indicative of their contents, particularly nicotine, and most did not display required warnings. Ingredients with associated health risks, prohibited in legal vapes by the TGO110, were found in samples. Consequently, the risks of e-cigarette use cannot be appropriately identified from the information supplied on the packaging or device.