Crackdown on Illegal E-Cigarettes in Staffordshire, UK
As the amount of seizures increases, trade standard officials from Staffordshire County Council in the United Kingdom are busy dealing with illegal e-cigarette products.
Since April 2022, officials have seized over 3,500 illegal e-cigarettes with a value of £27,000. In 2021, 4,700 e-cigarettes were seized either for having excessive capacity or being counterfeit.
These brightly-colored devices have become popular among both children and adults, with nearly one-third of 16-17 year olds reported to have tried e-cigarettes. Many believe that e-cigarettes are a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, but this is not necessarily true.
As part of the crackdown, trading standards are working with retailers to ensure responsible sales of products. Anyone with information on the illegal or counterfeit products being sold in Staffordshire can contact a government agency hotline.
Victoria Wilson, a cabinet member responsible for trading standards at Staffordshire County Council, stated:
Electronic cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular as a substitute for traditional cigarettes. However, with this rise in popularity comes an increase in illegal and counterfeit products. These products come in various sizes and shapes. What is particularly concerning to regulatory bodies is that as more people try these products, they are becoming more appealing to children.
Our officials are working hard to ensure that retailers in Staffordshire comply with regulations and remove any items that do not meet requirements. This service relies on responsible businesses and the public to provide information about illegal sales. For those who defy regulatory rules, products will be taken down.
The relevant authorities in the UK advise individuals to be aware of signs that may indicate a product is fake or illegal. These may include unusually low prices, unauthorized retailers, disposable e-cigarettes with 1500 puffs or more, as well as e-cigarettes and e-liquids containing nicotine that have not been certified by the MHRA.
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