Vaping manufacturers: Change your packaging

Thirteen e-liquid manufacturers have been identified by the FDA for deceptive marketing. The warning came recently after the FDA started clamping down on bright colored labels and attractive packaging that looked enticing to young consumers.

These companies were notified by the FDA to change their packing if they wished to remain in business. The FDA received support from several vaping companies including several Arkansas vape shop owners.

Topher Kent, owner of Rogue Vapers and president of the Arkansas Vape Advocacy Alliance (AVAA), was pleased with the decision. He felt it was time for the FDA to enforce marketing standards on vaping manufacturers.

Scout Stubbs, a member of the AVAA, also expressed her satisfaction with the move. She stated that the association’s goal is to “support public health by encouraging smokers to quit smoking”. She further said that the AVAA hopes to set marketing standards for its members to follow.

As co-owner of Drippers Vape Shop, Stubbs stated that her company had already begun modifying its e-liquid packaging. Its labels now include muted colors that would appeal to older consumers.

While the FDA’s recent action has prompted the change, some of the products from the thirteen companies are still being sold online. Stubbs also believes that there may also be retailers who are carrying the products.

Very little evidence exists to support claims of health risks associated with e-cigarettes. However, a 2018 Pediatrics study revealed that Arkansas had one of the highest rates of nicotine poisoning in kids. The state’s rate was twice the national average, despite its existing child-resistant packaging law.

In response to the study, Stubbs believed that the negative effects of nicotine paled in comparison to other products. Cleaning products, cosmetics, and similar products accounted for 45% of calls to the poison control center. On the other hand, only 0.4% of all calls were nicotine-related. While she agreed that the vaping industry should take note of the study, she felt that they were already on the right track.