A recent study suggests that selling vapes in plain packaging could help deter children from being attracted to them. Researchers from UCL and King’s College London discovered that adults are still willing to purchase e-cigarettes even if they are sold in plain packs.
While vapes are considered a useful tool for smoking cessation, the increasing use of vapes among children who have never smoked is concerning. The study, involving 2,770 children and young people aged 11 to 18, along with nearly 4,000 adults, revealed that 53% of youngsters indicated that their peers would be interested in trying vapes when presented in colorful packaging. However, this interest dropped to 38% when shown vapes in standardized packs with plain flavor descriptions. Interestingly, adults showed consistent interest regardless of whether the packs were standard 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 appeal to children, such as bubble gum, gummy bear, and cotton candy. Additionally, the legislation seeks to make Britain smoke-free by preventing individuals born on or after January 1, 2009, from legally purchasing tobacco products.
In a separate development, disposable vapes have already been banned earlier this year. Lead author Dr. Eve Taylor from UCL’s Department of Behavioral Science and Health emphasized the importance of finding a balance in vape packaging and flavor regulations to discourage non-smokers and young people while still supporting smokers who use vaping as a cessation aid.
The study tested various packaging options, including usual branded packs, plain packs with basic flavor descriptions, and standardized packs with flavors listed as codes. Hazel Cheeseman, the chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health, expressed support for the study, highlighting the need for effective vape regulation to protect children without undermining their role as a smoking cessation aid.
Plans are underway to empower local communities to block new vaping and gambling shops to revitalize British high streets. Keir Starmer is set to unveil town planning reforms to grant communities more say in store locations and quantities in their towns. The Prime Minister is expected to announce funding support for these reforms, directing resources to local councils and community projects to prevent clusters of vape shops, gambling establishments, and barbershops on high streets.