BAT Tests Find Overfilled E-Cigarette Liquids in UK Market

On March 17th, UK media outlet betterRetailing released a report on BAT (British American Tobacco) testing, which revealed that almost all major disposable e-cigarette brands in the UK had exceeded the legal limit for nicotine content in their e-liquids. This included popular UK brands such as Elfbar, LOSTMARY, SMOK, SKE Crystal, and Solo. BAT sent the results of the testing report to distributors, retailers, and regulatory bodies, urging them to ensure that non-compliant products were not supplied.

The President of UKVIA, John...

In response to this incident, 2FIRSTS conducted an email interview with the President of the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), John. The original interview in English can be accessed by clicking the provided link. The following is the full transcript of the interview.

Can you provide the English translation of "Q:2FIRSTS"? It is unclear what you are referring to.

A spokesperson for the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), John

According to a report from Better Retailing, British American Tobacco conducted testing on disposable e-cigarette liquid in the UK market and sent the results to distributors and government departments. Has the association been made aware of this news? Did British American Tobacco send the testing report to the association?

BAT has conducted numerous tests on disposable e-cigarette brands in the UK and shared its findings with various organizations, including the association. It is also known that other companies have conducted similar tests, but their results differ from those of BAT.

Do you believe that the issue of "e-cigarette e-liquid exceeding standards" is a common problem in the UK e-cigarette market?

A: Yes, based on the data we have seen, we do believe that some brands have been using excessive amounts of e-liquid to gain a competitive advantage.

Question: Will this test result regarding the excessive levels found in disposable e-cigarettes have an impact on the disposable e-cigarette market in the UK?

A: Yes, I believe this highlights issues with the MHRA approval process. I expect this process to become more rigorous. Additionally, I think major distributors should now perform their own testing on products they bring in. Non-compliant behavior is unacceptable.

Several brand dealers have said that some of the products tested by BAT are "old inventory," while the latest products are now compliant with standards. Will UKVIA test the latest products?

A: The key issue is not the inventory itself, as "old stock" is not a legitimate excuse. In fact, it's quite simple - products are either compliant or non-compliant. I believe all brands should conduct regular testing to ensure they are following the rules. The association will not protect those who break the law.

Q: Has BAT been in contact with the association and asked them to take measures?

Yes, we have had multiple discussions with BAT regarding this issue. If the MHRA and trade transaction standards are the regulators and enforcers in this matter, we will work with both institutions to ensure that the products sold in the UK are legal. The association will also protect its good reputation.

Special Statement: The above content is a translated article, for accurate interpretation please refer to the original English version.

Click here to read the original article in English: UKVIA responds to overfill incident, alleging that BAT's findings contradict tests conducted by other companies.

Further reading:

Content summary of the ELFBAR over-the-limit e-liquid incident in the UK.

British media reports obtaining BAT test report: Almost all disposable e-cigarette brands in the UK have excessive e-liquid levels.