Six months after the UK’s disposable vape ban, questions remain over its real-world impact. Industry commentator Martin Cullip discusses weak enforcement funding, the rise of illegal sales, growing environmental awareness, and concerns that the ban could undermine smoking cessation and push some users back to cigarettes.

Research indicates that banning flavored e-cigarettes can lead to increased sales of traditional cigarettes, undermining public health goals. A study examined Canadian data from 2018-2023, showing that flavor restrictions boosted cigarette sales by nearly 10%. When provinces eliminated flavored e-cigarettes from common outlets, cigarette sales rose significantly. Despite the dangers of smoking, e-cigarettes are considered safer. Past studies suggest flavor bans increase cigarette purchases and youth smoking. Canada and the U.S. have strict tobacco regulations, with both countries experiencing significant smoking-related deaths.

I’m 67 years old. I quit smoking with the help of vaping after other methods failed. When I walk into a vape shop, I’m not looking for a clinic, but for a place that feels welcoming, safe, and professional—because switching away from smoking is serious business. Vape shops should look like responsible, inviting adult spaces. Smokers deserve a door they feel comfortable walking through. A clean, well-run shop makes me feel less likely to be sold junk, less likely to be misled, and more likely to get practical help from someone who knows what they’re doing.

In 2025, nicotine pouches have become one of the most closely watched categories in the global novel tobacco market, seeing rapid growth across manufacturing, branding, distribution, and retail. Just before Christmas, the U.S. FDA granted marketing authorization to six products under Altria’s on! PLUS brand, highlighting their recognition as tobacco harm reduction tools. Despite this, experts note that nicotine pouches are still relatively new and require longer-term, more detailed studies on safety. Concerns about oral health have grown, particularly regarding gum irritation, oral lesions, and potential long-term changes to oral tissues. As the market expands, ongoing research will be key to understanding both the benefits and risks of these products.

Recent expert consensus calls nicotine a potent cardiovascular toxin, urging the EU to act. The narrative of safer nicotine is challenged, emphasizing all forms are harmful. Recommendations include flavor bans and taxation proportional to nicotine content. Critics question the validity of the report's findings and policy goals. They argue for harm reduction, citing examples like Swedish snus. The report's stance against safer nicotine products is viewed suspiciously by advocates. It aligns with EU debates on tobacco regulations. Supporters of harm reduction stress its role in reducing smoking rates. The report's timing coincides with EU health plans, raising concerns about its influence.