New Regulations for E-Cigarette Packaging in the UK

Nov.25.2022
New Regulations for E-Cigarette Packaging in the UK
EU and UK laws require e-cigarette packaging to display warning labels, ingredient lists, and nicotine content.

According to the relevant laws of the UK and the EU, TPD, it is required to state on the packaging of electronic cigarettes:


The label should include a list of ingredients in descending order of quantity, as well as information on the amount of nicotine, taste, batch number, and a warning to keep the product out of reach of children.


The warning message "This product contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. It is not recommended for use by non-smokers" or "This product contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance" must be displayed; the printing of the warning message is required.


a. Health warnings should be parallel to the main text that they are intended to accompany. b. They should be printed on the two largest surfaces of individual packaging and all outer packaging. c. They should cover 30% of the surface area of the unit packaging and all outer packaging, with the proportion increasing to 32% for member states with two official languages and 35% for those with more than two official languages. d. The text should be printed in black Helvetica bold font on a white background. Member states may determine the font size, provided that it ensures the maximum possible proportion of the text reserved for these health warnings, as required by national legislation. The warnings should be printed at the center of the surface reserved for them, and on all sides of cuboid packaging and any outer packaging, they should be parallel to the horizontal edge of the unit packaging or outer packaging.


The unit packaging, any external packaging, and product labels should not contain any of the following elements or functions:


a. The marketing or encouragement of consumption of a product by giving false impressions of its characteristics, health effects, risks or release of substances. b. Implying that the product is less harmful than other products or aimed at reducing the impact of certain harmful elements such as smoke components, or promoting benefits such as energy, vitality, healing, rejuvenation, natural or organic features, or other health or lifestyle benefits. c. Similar to food or cosmetics. d. Indicating improved biodegradability or other environmental advantages. 4. The unit packaging and any external packaging must not imply economic benefits through printed evidence, discounts, free delivery, two-in-one or other similar offers.


Elements and characteristics that are prohibited under articles 3 and 4 may include but are not limited to text, symbols, names, trademarks, graphics, or other indicators.


Each unit packaging of electronic cigarettes or refill containers must include an instruction manual that contains the following information:


a. The product comes with usage and storage instructions, which include advice against young people and non-smokers using the product. b. There are contraindications. c. There are warnings specific to certain at-risk groups. d. Possible adverse effects are listed. e. The addictive and toxic nature of the product is noted. f. The manufacturer or importer's contact information, as well as the legal or natural contact person within the EU, is provided.


Note: The above are unified special requirements for EU e-cigarettes. Other information that needs to be displayed on the packaging includes references to packaging requirements for electronic products, such as CE markings, recycling symbols, manufacturer information, production dates, etc. The e-cigarette device should also adhere to the packaging requirements for electronic products. The e-liquid should follow the requirements for chemicals, such as GHS and CLP, including symbols like skull and crossbones, exclamation marks, etc.


A reporter from 2FIRSTS visited several electronic cigarette retailers in London and found that the packaging labels of the products being sold were complete and consistent, as shown below:


The pictures show that all brands have followed the regulations of TRPR and TPD in packaging their products. Warning labels are visibly displayed on the front, back, sides or bottom of the packaging. Additionally, the products carry detailed information and warning messages covering over 30% of the overall packaging area.


During our investigation, it was revealed that most stores are currently selling products with compliant packaging. The electronic cigarette regulations in the UK have extensive coverage, mainly focused on product packaging, leading to a comprehensive legalization trend in the market.


2FIRSTS will continue to bring you relevant coverage.


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Nicotine-containing products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, carry significant health risks. Readers are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions, including age restrictions and access limitations.

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