A recent study suggests that selling vapes in plain packaging could help reduce their appeal to children. Research conducted by UCL and King’s College London revealed that adults are still inclined to purchase e-cigarettes even if they are sold in plain packs.
Vapes are recognized as a beneficial tool for smoking cessation, but the increasing use among children who have never smoked is a significant concern. The study, involving 2,770 children and young individuals aged 11 to 18, along with nearly 4,000 adults, indicated that 53% of youngsters believed their peers would be interested in trying vapes in their usual colorful packaging.
However, this interest decreased to 38% when they were presented with vapes in standardized packs with regular flavor descriptions. Interestingly, among adults, the level of interest remained consistent regardless of whether the packs were standardized in white or branded packaging.
The ongoing Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently progressing through the House of Lords, aims to eliminate brightly colored packaging and vape flavors that attract children, such as bubble gum, gummy bear, and cotton candy. This legislation also seeks to make the UK smoke-free by restricting individuals born on or after January 1, 2009, from purchasing tobacco products legally.
Furthermore, a ban on disposable vapes was introduced earlier this year as part of these efforts. Dr. Eve Taylor, the lead author from UCL’s Department of Behavioral Science and Health, emphasized the importance of finding the right balance in vape packaging and flavor regulations to discourage non-smokers and young individuals while still supporting smokers who use vaping as a cessation aid.
The study tested various pack types, including usual branded packs, plain packs with limited flavor descriptions, and standardized packs with coded flavor names. Hazel Cheeseman, the chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health, emphasized the significance of this research in showcasing how policymakers could regulate vapes effectively to safeguard children without undermining their role as a smoking cessation aid.
Upcoming plans will introduce measures to empower local communities to block new vaping and gambling outlets, aiming to rejuvenate Britain’s high streets. Keir Starmer will unveil town planning reforms to grant communities more say in determining the location and number of stores in their towns. Additionally, the government is expected to allocate funds to support these reforms and explore ways for communities to take control of vacant shops to prevent an overabundance of vape shops, gambling establishments, and barbers on high streets.