Issue 36

The Rebirth of Iconic USA Made Flavors

EDITORIAL

Editor - Patrick Griffin

Journalist - Jordan Millar

Junior Journalist - Oliver Smith

DESIGN

Head of Design - Hayley Parker

Lead Designer - Aaron Rana

Graphic Designer - Ayaz Arshad

Graphic Designer - Amy Harrison

Design Support - Lucy Booth

MARKETING

Marketing Director - Katie Loomes

Web Developer - Kain Alden

Marketing Executives

Alicia Snow-Simpson Carrie Strouther

SALES

Head of Sales - Tom Slack

+44 7969 170 828

Client Partnerships Manager Steve Culf

+44 7795 200 167

Sales Executive - Peter Masters +44 7305 960 345

Sales Executive - Baz Bassra +44 7823 887 753

China Sales Executive - Arlen Luo +86 137 012 666 84

ACCOUNTS

Finance Director - Kris Worton

Finance Executive - Rochelle Warsop

Office Assistant - Anna Difusco

EVENTS DIRECTOR

Abida Razaque

MANAGING DIRECTORS

Pom Kaila

David Turner

CEO

Paul Caplin

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

With Christmas and the new year just around the corner, I firstly wanted to wish you all a happy holidays!

The past 12 months have been critical in guiding the future of the vaping industry so, as we approach the end of 2021, it’s important to reflect on some of our victories and some of the fights still left to win. Of course, the World Health Organization’s COP9 tobacco control conference is the secretive elephant in the room. While global leaders met to decide the fate of billions of smokers, dedicated advocates, pro-vaping experts and millions of consumers were needlessly shut out… and what’s worse, the world-changing event barely broke headlines. It would have been brilliant if we got even a fraction of the coverage that the COP26 climate summit had, both issues are hugely important and deserve our full attention. Thankfully the industry refused to be silenced, with brave voices across the globe speaking out against the anti-vaping WHO. On a brighter note, Dubai’s first international expo, the World Vape Show, and our very own Vapouround Awards have been and gone… and it’s safe to say they were a MASSIVE success.

Seeing so many familiar faces and experiencing the true community values of the industry was amazing and celebrating the very best that vaping has to offer is always a great honour.

However, while Dubai’s blossoming vape market is sure to push the industry further than ever before, it was a shame to learn that a British football coach is facing 25-years in prison…over just four small bottles of CBD vape liquid. My heart goes

out to London-born Billy Hood and his family, who are currently fighting for the 24-year-old’s freedom – read our article ‘Mother’s anguish as son jailed for 25 years in Dubai’ for the full story. Despite the endless work of consumers and advocates, it’s clear that vaping still faces huge discrimination and misinformation on a global scale. Especially when you consider that school staff in Canada thought it appropriate to ‘strip search’ children as young as 13 because they were suspected of carrying vape products. While youth and non-smokers shouldn’t be using e-cigarettes, advocates rightly highlighted that we shouldn’t treat our children like criminals and cross lines that should NEVER be crossed because of a moral panic about vaping. We can only hope that public health officials, anti-vape campaigners and international sceptics make a resolution to think more pragmatically and logically about vaping and the power for good that it has become.

Thank you for your continued support.

BEST VAPE MAG FOUR YEARS RUNNING

Products in this magazine may not be used, bought or reviewed by any individual under 18 years old. Vapouround does not support the use of e-cigarettes and devices for individuals under the age of 18 years old; by reading this magazine, you are indicating that you are over 18 years old. Vapouround does not endorse the inappropriate application or misuse of nicotine, smoking or product abuse of any form. We do not claim that e-cigarettes and nicotine devices will help cure smokers’ nicotine addiction and as such, we cannot take responsibility for any effect products advertised in our magazine may have on users’ nicotine consumption. There is no guarantee that products in this magazine including e-cigarettes and nicotine devices will stop you smoking. The opinions in this magazine are solely those of the writers. Vapouround takes no responsibility and rejects all liability for third party reviews or opinion pieces by external agencies. All trademarks, registered or otherwise of products in this magazine are the property of respective owners. To use trademarks, please contact the company directly, who will advise you further.

Patrick Griffin | Editor

SHORTFILLS

Four pages filled with short vape-related stories and research making news from around the world.

NOW THAT’S FAST TALKING

Smoking rooms on some Japanese bullet trains are being converted into ‘Zoom Rooms’ to allow online video meetings at almost 200mph. Passengers will have super-fast WiFi speeds and charging points at every seat in the special carriages, as well as access to a laptop tray with a wrist rest. A mouse will even be supplied for those who dislike using touchpads and privacy screens are also available. Smoking has been banned on Japanese trains since 2020 and the trial is taking place on the 186mph N700S tilting trains.

GET REAL TO SAVE LIVES

Around three quarters of Norway’s smokers either don’t want to quit or are ambivalent about giving up. Researcher Karl Erik Lund, from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, said smoking habits embraced ‘identity, being social and joyous experiences’. He said: “Our study shows that it might be time to better facilitate a transition from dangerous tobacco products to less harmful ones, such as e-cigarettes and snus. “Today’s politics aim for a tobacco-free society…but harm reduction is far more realistic.”

GOOD COP BAD COP

Advocates fear that a major climate conference completely overshadowed a crucial tobacco control summit taking place at the same time. While the COP26 environmental conference made international headlines, the COP9 tobacco control summit was held in secret. Public health expert Professor Gerry Stimson said: “Global leaders are making important climate change pledges under the glare of the media spotlight. They must demand more from delegations inside the closed and unscrutinised rooms of COP9…the age of combustion – for tobacco as for fossil fuels – must end.”

Check out our story ‘Let us in…there is no COP-romise’ later in this issue for more.

‘UTTER IGNORANCE’

Experts say Israeli policymakers are ‘ignoring years of international scientific studies’ after they signed-off on the world’s biggest vape tax to date. Officials claim the record-breaking tax hike – 270 percent for e-liquids and 360 percent for disposables – will protect people from the ‘risks’ associated with vaping. But Professor Riccardo Polosa, a physician and harm reduction advocate, said it stands against the ‘vast scientific literature’ that supports vaping as a reduced risk alternative. He said: “This indicates utter ignorance…the scheme will only restrict access to safer nicotine products, blunting any potential prospects of additional quitting.”

Shortfill section editor : Jordan Millar

America’s favourite tobacco-free nicotine pouch* is now available in Extra Strong. New ZYN ® Cool Mint 9MG delivers a stronger kick of nicotine that lasts up to an hour, perfect for when you can’t smoke or vape. Pop one under your lip and no one will know it’s there. Just remember to wait for the ZYNGLE to let you know it’s working.

THE $12BN PUBLIC HEALTH PRIZE

Canada could save over $12 billion annually, if it adopted vaping as a harm reduction tool, claim experts. They revealed that endorsing the lifesaving technology could greatly cut healthcare costs by reducing tobacco-related death and illness. Darryl Tempest of the Canadian Vaping Association said: “Vaping presents an opportunity to reduce smoking rates and extend the life expectancy of smokers.” He warned that flavour bans drive people back to cigarettes, stressing that public health gains should be ‘the focus of public health policies’.

BARGING IN

Consumer advocacy group We Vape took a ‘battle barge’ past Parliament to ensure MPs know how important it is to support vaping to help smokers quit.

Taking place ahead of the recent international COP9 tobacco control conference, it encouraged UK politicians to defend vaping amid attacks from the World Health Organization and others. We Vape director Mark Oates said it was important to get the #BackVapingSaveLives message across for all of London - and Parliament - to see.

A COMMON-SENSE APPROACH TO HARM REDUCTION

Harm reduction advocates praised the Stroke Association after it endorsed vaping as a quitting tool. The leading stroke charity said it agrees with the view that smokers should ‘strongly consider’ the use of e-cigarettes to kick the habit. Responding to the news, a JAC Vapour spokesperson said: “Another amazing charity that endorses the use of vaping as a safer alternative to smoking…thank you for a common-sense approach to harm reduction.”

WAKE UP AND LISTEN

Canada’s justifications to introduce a federal vape flavour ban have been strongly criticised by international advocates. The World Vapers’ Alliance says Health Canada’s reasons for the ban are ‘full of biased arguments against vaping’, ‘perpetuate debunked myths’ and ‘miss crucial facts’. WVA director Michael Landl said: “When will policymakers wake up to the benefits of vaping?” He said the ban would drive up smoking rates and fuel an unregulated black market for illegal e-cigarettes.

DON’T BAN…REGULATE

Hong Kong is being urged to regulate – not ban – vaping, after media reports suggest it’s considering a blanket ban on reduced risk products. Medical and scientific experts wrote to HK Chief Executive Carrie Lam, saying the evidence showed that embracing vaping would save lives. Harm reduction advocate Nancy Loucas said: “If Hong Kong is to successfully reduce its smoking rates, it must give smokers legal access to safer alternatives. We hope they follow the evidence, because there’s plenty of it.”

MEXICAN VAPE BAN RULED UNCONSTITUTIONAL

Mexico’s ban on e-cigarettes has been declared unconstitutional by the country’s highest judicial body. Under the country’s tobacco laws ‘marketing, selling, distributing, promoting or producing’ e-cigarettes were prohibited. The Supreme Court of Justice ruled that the ‘absolute and categorical ban’ on vaping products was unconstitutional because it infringed on commercial freedom. However, the court did not rule in favour of allowing e-cigarette marketing, saying it was only concerned with the ‘absolute ban.’

America’s favourite tobacco-free nicotine pouch* is now available in Extra Strong. New ZYN ® Cool Mint 9MG delivers a stronger kick of nicotine that lasts up to an hour, perfect for when you can’t smoke or vape. Pop one under your lip and no one will know it’s there. Just remember to wait for the ZYNGLE to let you know it’s working.

PULLING THE PIN ON SMOKING

The British Army wants to tackle its 70-year-strong smoking culture, by banning the use of all tobacco products. The wide-reaching strategy – which takes effect from December 2022 – will help soldiers and staff kick the habit and prevent non-smokers from turning to cigarettes. And while tobacco products will be banned across all UK army sites –excluding single living accommodationofficials confirmed that vaping will still be allowed in designated areas.

GET OUT…YOU’RE (GEEK)

BARRED

A criminal investigation is underway after £190,000 worth of illegal Elf and GEEK BAR Pro products were seized from a former takeaway. The huge haul of 24,000 devices – which contained more than double the legal nicotine limit - was claimed by Newcastle trading standards officials. Newcastle Director of Public Health Eugene Milne said vaping continues to play an important role in supporting smokers, but we must do ‘all we can’ to eliminate illegal products.

Read our stories ‘This must stop now’ and ‘Clampdown on counterfeiters’ to hear how GEEK BAR, and the wider industry, are helping tackle this issue.

PANDEMIC BLAMED FOR CIG SALE RISE

US cigarette sales increased last year for the first time in two decades. The Federal Trade Commission’s annual Cigarette Report revealed that 203.7 billion cigarettes were sold in 2020 – up 0.4 percent from the previous year. Advertising spend by cigarette companies also rose slightly to $7.84 billion, compared with $7.62 billion in 2019. Many analysts blamed the increase on the pandemic and expect the sales decline will return.

NOT ANOTHER ONE!

Lithuania will ban flavoured e-liquids from July 1, 2022…regardless of whether they contain nicotine. The country’s politicians – who have been debating the measure for more than a year – originally planned to limit the ban to nicotine vape products. However, they added non-nicotine products to stop vapers using shortfills with nic shots to get around the new law. Finland, Estonia, Hungary and Ukraine already have flavour bans, with Denmark and the Netherlands set to follow suit in 2022.

GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT DOCTOR

Doctors are being urged to speak up more on harm reduction…because people trust what they have to say. A new Ipsos survey, of over 19,000 people across 28 countries, revealed that 64 percent of people think doctors are trustworthy, while almost two thirds say politicians are not. Global health advocate Derek Yach said: “This data underpins the need for doctors to communicate health risks and effective interventions…more such advocacy on a global basis could counter disinformation.”

SACKED FOR VAPING

More than a dozen Brits have revealed they were fired for…vaping at work. They were employed in sectors including government, education, health and defence, according to a new E-Cigarette Direct ‘Vaping in the Workplace’ survey. Hundreds more reported either being bullied or discriminated against because they vaped. E-Cigarette Direct chairman James Dunworth said: “Vaping in the workplace is a little-explored area and it’s shocking to learn that people have actually lost their jobs due to vaping. It is also concerning many people have experienced bullying and discrimination.”

WHO VAPE ATTACKS ‘DISGRACEFUL’

US FEDERAL VAPE TAX IS ‘POLITICAL LUNACY’

America’s proposed new federal vape tax would ‘drive up cigarette sales’ according to a leading economic professor. Michael Pesko, from Georgia State University, said 5.5 more cigarette packets would be sold for each pod eliminated. He predicted the tax would ‘immediately’ lead to 2.7m more adult daily smokers and 530,000 additional teen smokers. American Vapor Manufacturers Association president Amanda Wheeler said: “For millions of vapers this is life or death. Imposing a gigantic tax on working people and the poor, especially in this economic climate, is just political lunacy.”

‘END THE HYPOCRISY’

A leading surgeon and harm reduction expert says the Indian government must reverse its vaping ban to protect public health. New Delhi-based Dr Kiran Melkote said vaping and other low-risk alternatives were ‘the future of tobacco use’. He said: “These methods offer an incredible opportunity to improve public health, however the WHO and many countries (including India) have refused to even consider these harm reduction alternatives. If tobacco control in our country really is about public health, then the hypocrisy must end.”

There are renewed calls to defund the World Health Organization after its latest mistimed attack on vaping. Just days after a WHO-hosted international tobacco control conference ended, it tweeted: “Don’t fall for the tobacco industry’s tricks…switching is not quitting.” World Vapers’ Alliance director Michael Landl said: “Discouraging people from switching to a 95 percent less harmful alternative is disgraceful. Time to defund the WHO.” Global health expert Charles A. Gardner added: “These messages will come back to haunt you. You have a history of deadly harm reduction denial.”

FOR ‘EVALI’ READ ‘ATHCVALI’

A group of 75 experts have joined forces to urge the US Centres for Disease Control to drop the name EVALI. In an open letter to the US health body, they said EVALI - E-cigarette or Vaping Product UseAssociated Lung Injury – was an ‘ineffective and misleading’ term. They highlighted that the CDC itself acknowledged that the ‘primary drivers’ of the 2019 lung injury outbreak were ‘THC products that had vitamin E acetate added’. The experts suggested ATHCVALIAdulterated THC Vaping Associated Lung Injury – should be used instead.

WARNING - This product may contain nicotine which is a highly addictive substance

END THE HOSTILITIES

Nicotine science experts call for world governments to challenge the WHO’s outdated approach to tobacco policy in order to reduce smoking death rates.

Words: Patrick Griffin

One hundred specialists in nicotine science, policy and practice are calling on the World Health Organization to abandon its ‘hostile stance’ on tobacco harm reduction.

Ahead of the crucial Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (COP9) conference, they urged all 182 countries taking part to adopt a ‘more positive’ attitude.

The experts said: “Because of the urgent need to reduce deaths from smoked tobacco, parties should challenge the WHO to modernise its approach to tobacco policy”

The letter aimed to get a more positive debate on harm reduction during the six-day online event which began on November 8.

Clive Bates from the Counterfactual said: “The letter pushes back against the WHO’s misguided and unscientific drive for prohibition or excessive regulation and taxation of vaping products, heated and smokeless tobacco products.”

The expert signatories wrote: “We must not allow excessive caution to deny smokers promising options to switch from combustible products that we know with certainty are lethal. Regrettably, the WHO has been dismissive of the potential to transform the tobacco market from high-risk to low-risk products.

“The WHO is rejecting a public health strategy that could avoid millions of smoking-related deaths.”

They pointed out that:

- Tobacco harm reduction offered significant public health opportunities

- E-cigarettes drove up smoking cessation

- Tobacco harm reduction can contribute to the WHO’s sustainable development goals for health and

- There is public health support for harm reduction in tobacco control

They wrote: “It is time for global tobacco policy to draw on the full potential of tobacco harm reduction. We hope the public health science, policy, and practitioner communities will converge on a common purpose to reduce the global burden of tobacco-related disease and premature mortality as quickly as possible.” The authors say that the World Health Organization should address ‘genuine tobacco industry malpractice’, but warns that it must not ‘create a counterproductive barrier to reduced risk products that have public health benefits’.

They want the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to be ‘more open to stakeholders with harm-reduction perspectives, including consumers and public health experts’. Most significantly they want an independent review of the WHO’s approach to tobacco policy. They concluded: “Such a review could address the interpretation and use of science, the quality of policy advice, stakeholder engagement, accountability and governance.”

We must not allow excessive caution to deny smokers promising options to switch from combustible products that we know with certainty are lethal.

SCHOOL CHILDREN

‘VIOLATED’ IN SEARCH FOR HIDDEN VAPES

Experts question whether the anti-vaping moral panic went too far, when teenagers as young as 13 were ‘strip searched’ in a hunt for concealed vapes.

Words: Jordan Millar

An investigation is underway after school staff ordered four children to drop their pants to see if they were hiding forbidden vapes.

The youngsters – aged 13 to 16 – said they were ‘forced’ to pull their trousers down to their knees and ‘shake their underwear’ to prove they weren’t concealing vape products.

Andrew Forgione, a grade nine student at LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School in Quebec, Canada, said he was ‘traumatised’ by the experience.

The 15-year-old said: “They took us to the office to be strip searched; you’re cornered in a room; you have no phone and you can’t call your parents, you feel like you don’t have a choice.

“It felt like being a prisoner because that’s what happens in prison, you are frisked down to your boxers. This should not be happening at school.”

Andrew was suspended for one-day when teachers eventually found a vape pen hidden in one of his socks.

The 15-year-old’s mother Laura McCarthy was furious, saying that the school was happy to reveal that her son was caught with a vape pen, but failed to tell her about the strip search.

She said: “No adult has the right to tell a child to drop his pants, no one…I was devastated, my son was violated.

“I’m not proud that he had a vape pen on him, but they should have notified the parents, someone should have been there with him.”

The four teens later walked out of class, where they were joined by parents and other students to protest about the school’s actions.

The school board launched an investigation into the incident and, while it says the strip search was ‘regrettable’, it believes there was no ‘malicious intent’.

Judy Kelley, a chairperson for the board, said: “We do not accept this as a means to investigate vaping in the washrooms.

“Our assistant director general is involved, our regional director is involved, they’re asking questions and trying to get to the bottom of it.”

Amazingly, a board official tried to argue that the term ‘strip search’ shouldn’t be used to describe the event at all, as there was no physical contact and the children weren’t told to remove all of their clothes.

However, the Canadian Supreme Court defines a strip search as the removal or rearrangement of ‘some or all’ of a person’s clothing to inspect their ‘private areas…or undergarments’.

Following the incident, longtime vape advocate Christina Xydous said it was ‘profoundly shocking’, but not surprising.

She said: “The lengths to which people are willing to step over what would normally be considered ‘lines that can’t be crossed’ to manage youth vaping are increasing.

“It can only make sense through the lens of a hysteria around vaping products, but public health authorities and anti-vaping groups have done everything possible to stoke this kind of moral panic.”

The Quebec Coalition for Vapers’ Rights (CDVQ) spokesperson added: “Maybe their policy says that children aren’t allowed to bring vapes onto the property.

“But is it really a justification for humiliating them and putting them in a situation where they’re treated like criminals?”

Nobody from the school or school board was available for comment.

The lengths to which people are willing to step over what would normally be considered ‘lines that can’t be crossed’ to manage youth vaping are increasing.

WHY BAN THIS IMPORT-ANT QUITTING TOOL

Advocates

Words: Jordan Millar

For Aussie vapers, October 1 will forever be known as ‘Black Friday’…when regulators ‘ignored science’ and potentially condemned millions of smokers to death. Despite fierce opposition from advocates and experts, Australia ‘clamped down’ its borders, making it near impossible to access life-saving vaping products.

Now, the country’s 500,000 vapers – and 2.3 million smokers – must apply for a doctor’s prescription before they can import the reduced risk product. Experts warned that the measure could spell doom for public health and force

thousands back to deadly cigarettes, accusing policymakers of disregarding ‘best practice’.

They said that, by limiting access to e-cigarettes, Australia had effectively joined ‘a sad club of countries’ that fail to acknowledge the role of vaping in the fight against tobacco.

Harm reduction advocate Nancy Loucas said: “500,000 vapers are now expected to hunt down a willing doctor for a medical assessment and prescription.

“And many, undoubtably, will return to the easier option of grabbing a packet of

cigarettes.” She added: “Friday, October 1 marks the day deadly cigarettes became a lot easier to obtain in Australia than safer nicotine vaping products.”

Loucas stressed that Aussie policymakers are already ‘miles behind’ when it comes to ending the smoking epidemic, instead falling in line with the anti-vape messaging of the World Health Organization.

And, with the WHO ‘condemning safer alternatives’ and ‘ignoring mounting evidence’, the health body is effectively ‘denying’ the world’s 1.1 billion smokers a proven escape from cigarettes.

She said: “Australia is now well down the world rankings when it comes to adopting effective tobacco harm reduction policies. “It is not following international science or best practice, instead kowtowing to the poisoned advice of the World Health Organization…it’s sadly another dark day.”

Friday, October 1 marks the day deadly cigarettes became a lot easier to obtain in Australia than safer nicotine vaping products.

accuse Australia of leaving smokers behind after it launched its controversial vape import ban.

COULD NHS VAPING PRESCRIPTIONS LIMIT CONSUMER CHOICE?

While the UK government should be ‘praised’ for its world’s first vaping prescription plan…many are asking if it’s the right way to tackle the smoking epidemic.

Words: Jordan Millar

When UK health officials announced that e-cigarettes could be made available through the NHS, there was an almost universal cheer of celebration.

Advocates were ecstatic that England is set be the first country in the world to prescribe vaping products as an approved quitting tool for smokers.

But, while this is a groundbreaking victory for the vaping industry, not everybody thinks it’s the right way to achieve a smokefree future.

Experts warned that a medically-approved

prescription service could pose a threat to one of the most important aspects of vaping…consumer choice.

They highlighted that e-cigarettes give smokers almost complete control over their quitting journey, but the freedom to switch between flavours and devices could be lost under the scheme.

Peter Hajek of Queen Mary University of London said: “I’m not sure that medical licensing of e-cigarettes is a good idea.

“Smokers are more likely to benefit from vaping if they can select the flavours,

strengths and products they like…rather than being limited to whatever becomes licensed.”

The psychologist questioned whether vaping brands even had the resources to fund and comply with an inevitably complex approval process.

Some advocates are now suggesting that health officials simply recommend existing products to smokers and direct them to recognised and longstanding companies.

However, while the debate around NHS prescribed e-cigarettes rages on, most

experts agree that the announcement is a brilliant endorsement of the harm reduction benefits of vaping.

They highlighted that this stamp of approval from health officials would improve public perceptions about e-cigarettes and help undo years of damage caused by anti-vaping propaganda.

Linda Bauld, professor of public health at the University of Edinburgh stressed that misperceptions about safety have left many smokers hesitant to switch.

She said: “While there is good evidence that e-cigarettes can help people quit, we also know that up to one-in-three smokers in the UK has not tried these devices.

“The option of having approved devices that could be prescribed would reassure smokers about the relative risks…this is excellent news.”

The government deserves huge praise for taking this bold decision to look more closely at vaping and for taking an evidence-based, science-led approach.

John Dunne of the UK Vaping Industry Association – and one of the most prominent harm reduction voices in the country – was also swift to applaud the move.

He said it’s ‘no surprise’ that the Department of Health announced their world’s first prescription plan, especially when you consider the ‘overwhelming’ arguments for using vaping to end the smoking epidemic.

The UKVIA director general said: “The government deserves huge praise for taking this bold decision to look more closely at vaping and for taking an evidence-based, science-led approach.

“This is just the latest in a longline of breakthroughs for those of us who, for years, have advocated vaping as the best and most effective method for people looking to quit smoking.”

He added: “We have repeatedly called on the Government to make access to vaping much more accessible…but it’s not simply a case of giving vaping products to smokers and sending them off.”

END THE VAPING MISINFODEMIC

Despite eight million tobacco-related deaths each year…

…‘the tobacco control field is the only area of public health that rejects harm reduction’

Words: Patrick Griffin and Jordan Millar

The World Health Organization and billionaire financier Michael Bloomberg are being accused of spreading a dangerous ‘vaping misinfodemic’ on a global scale.

Former WHO senior adviser Charles A. Gardner is spearheading an international campaign for governments to challenge his exemployers on this issue.

Gardner, now executive director at international consumer nicotine group INNCO, said we must shine a spotlight on the WHO’s ‘evidence-denialist’ attitude towards vaping.

He said: “There are 1.1 billion smokers in the world, a situation that has barely changed in 20 years, but the anti-harm reduction conservatism of the WHO and Bloomberg is not working.

“That’s why we are calling for a global response in the form of a Tobacco Harm Reduction Working Group and international governments collectively questioning and challenging their prohibitionist approach.”

Gardner was speaking as INNCO released a 23-page dossier – ‘Bloomberg, the World Health Organization & the Vaping Misinfodemic’ – demanding urgent action.

INNCO said: “WHO and Bloomberg have both made clear their opposition to safer nicotine alternatives, despite growing evidence of lower harm and efficacy for smoking cessation.”

The hard-hitting report calls on world governments to:

• collectively challenge the WHO and Bloomberg’s current prohibitionist position on safer nicotine alternatives

• demand to know why, despite eight million tobacco-related deaths every year, the tobacco control field is the only field of public health that rejects harm reduction

• set up a global Tobacco Harm Reduction Working Group of independent scientists, international health experts, specialist academics and ex-smokers and to

• stop funding and/or boycott future Conference Of Parties (COP) tobacco control meetings, until the WHO gives full consideration to the overwhelming evidence that safer nicotine alternatives save lives.

The INNCO report contains statements and evidence from healthcare experts, leading academics, politicians, respected journalists and research organisations.

It said ‘serious question marks need to be raised about the WHO and Bloomberg’s outright opposition to safer nicotine alternatives to deadly smoking’ and lists nine reasons why.

THESE INCLUDE:

• Overstating the potential harms to under-aged vapers at the expense of the harm reduction opportunity that exists for adults

• The absurdity of calling e-cigarettes big tobacco products when the vape industry is dominated by independent manufacturers who are competing against big tobacco’s market share in cigarettes

• WHO and Bloomberg turning a blind eye to the mounting global recognition for the life-saving harm reduction potential of safer nicotine alternatives such as vaping.

Gardner added: “I’ve spent 30 years in global health - including three years as a Senior Advisor on Research to the WHO - and I’ve never seen anything as crazy as what’s happening now in tobacco control.”

I’ve spent 30 years in global health and I’ve never seen anything as crazy as what’s happening now in tobacco control.

YOU’RE FIGHTING THE WRONG BATTLE!

Advocates from around the world urge the WHO to focus on creating a smoke-free future, instead of ‘turning its guns on vaping’.

Words: Jordan Millar

When will the WHO acknowledge the ‘wealth of evidence’ in support of vaping and end its ‘anti-science charade’?

Some of the most prominent voices in harm reduction came together to demand the World Health Organization ‘end its war’ on life-saving alternatives.

They stressed that the health body has an opportunity to ‘beat smoking for good’, but it seems too focused on fighting the wrong battles.

Michael Landl of the World Vapers’ Alliance said: “The WHO routinely ignores the wealth of science pointing to the benefit of these products and the firsthand experience of millions who quit smoking for good.

“Restricting or banning access to vaping and other products will do nothing but cost lives…millions could be saved if the WHO was really serious about beating smoking.” The 31-strong group of consumer organisations urged the WHO to deliver on its harm reduction promises.

They asked that it endorsed proven reduced risk products, ensured affordability for consumers and safeguarded people’s right to access the most effective and popular quitting tools available.

The group also insisted that vapers and ‘independent experts’ be allowed to attend November’s crucial COP9 tobacco summit.

With the Conference of Parties determining the future of vaping, smoking and harm reduction policies on a global scale, they said advocates must be given the chance to speak.

Michael said: “200 million lives worldwide could be saved, but it looks like COP9 will be another anti-science and anti-consumer WHO charade.

time to actually deliver on the commitment to tobacco harm reduction by endorsing harm reduction products.”

“It’s

Restricting or banning access to vaping and other products will do nothing but cost lives…millions could be saved if the WHO was really serious about beating smoking.

“

REPEAL

VAPING BAN

Words: Patrick Griffin

The Indian government is being urged to overturn its nationwide vaping ban, after the measure was branded a ‘total failure’ by advocates.

When the ban was imposed in 2019, health chiefs were warned that it would lead to more smoking and a massive boost for black market vape products.

Now a hugely significant independent survey has shown that the country’s smokers overwhelmingly want access to less harmful alternatives.

More than 2,000 current and former legalage smoke-free users from throughout

India took part in the survey, which was commissioned by consumer advocacy group, Fact Asia.

An overwhelming 95 percent want the government to take tobacco harm reduction seriously and come up with new ways to help smokers quit.

Eight out of ten called for the vape ban to be scrapped, while 87 percent said reduced risk products should be just as accessible as cigarettes are to adult smokers.

Nancy Loucas, Executive Coordinator of the Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) said: “Indians continue to seek alternatives to smoking, but they’re forced back to smoking or into the black market with unregulated vaping products.

“In the past two years, Indians have been forced to either return to deadly smoking, consume unregulated street vapes, or both.

“While such outcomes were sadly predictable, it’s not too late. We’re calling on India’s government to closely review this survey’s extensive findings and repeal its failed vaping ban.”

She added: “Ignoring the evidence, India’s government adopted the World Health Organization’s poisoned anti-vaping advice, and now its people are paying a huge price.”

Ignoring the evidence, India’s government adopted the World Health Organization’s poisoned anti-vaping advice, and now its people are paying a huge price.

THIS ‘FAILED’

Indian smokers want the government to get serious about tobacco harm reduction and provide widespread access to reduced risk products.

E-CIG VAPOUR IS SMOKE SAYS WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION…

…but by that logic we must now ban ‘hot showers, restaurants and grandma’s kitchen’.

Words: Jordan Millar

In a radical new effort to shift perceptions on vaping, the World Health Organization tried to change the meaning of the word ‘smoke’.

The health body claimed that – despite there being no combustion – the aerosols produced by e-cigarettes are the same as the smoke that comes from tobacco.

This ‘Orwellian twisting’ of facts sparked a huge backlash from experts, who accused the WHO of ‘defying scientific thought or reason’.

Critics were quick to point out that, by the same logic, kettles and steaming bowls of soup would also expose you to dangerous fumes.

Vape activist Phillip Kirschberg said: “Steam, vapour and mist have all been defined as ‘smoke’…hot showers, restaurants and grandma’s kitchen to be banned immediately.”

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) added: “It defies any level of scientific thought or reason…

but sadly, it’s also not terribly surprising.” Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time the WHO used questionable language to describe e-cigarettes, with the health body already listing vaping products as tobacco.

INNCO, an international harm reduction group, compared the WHO’s anti-vaping language to the ‘carefully constructed lies’ and ‘thought control’ seen in George Orwell’s’ iconic novels.

It said that the WHO’s ‘moral animosity’ towards vaping is steering its policies in the wrong direction…compromising the fight to end smoking addiction.

The International Network of Nicotine Consumer Organisations said: “This is not 1984…it’s 2021.

has given us new options to help smokers shift to safer nicotine alternatives and if we hope to avoid a dystopian future with a billion deaths this century…tobacco control’s Newthink needs a serious rethink.”

“Innovation

It defies any level of scientific thought or reason…but sadly, it’s also not terribly surprising.

THIS MUST STOP NOW

Guidance issued to retailers and regulators urged to get tough over illegal high-strength disposable vape pods being sold in the UK

Words: Patrick Griffin

Regulators are being urged to clamp down hard on retailers selling Illegal super-strength disposable vape pods in the UK.

Pod systems with nicotine strengths of up to two-and-a-half-times the UK limit are being sold online and in convenience stores by a significant minority of unscrupulous retailers.

The maximum permitted nicotine strength is 20mg/ml, but liquids with concentrations of 50mg/ml are being openly sold.

Some of the illegal products, seen by

Vapouround magazine, are intended for the US market and contain a warning on the outer packaging saying: “Sale only allowed in the United States.”

The UK Vaping Industry Association has called for ‘tough action and robust enforcement’ by regulators against anyone found to be flouting the law.

UK vape regulator the MHRA, warns retailers that it is their responsibility to ensure that all products they sell have been approved for sale by the regulator.

Anyone caught selling non-compliant products could have their entire stock

seized and face fines of up to £5,000 for each breach of the law.

The UKVIA is so concerned about the development that it rushed out a twopage factsheet, giving compliance guidance to retailers on the sale of disposable vape devices.

The free guide, produced in conjunction with vaping compliance specialists Arcus Compliance, covers the rules regarding tank/reservoir capacity of devices, nicotine levels and the information that must be contained on packaging.

UKVIA Director General John Dunne

said: “We are doing all we can as a trade association to ensure the industry’s reputation is not tarnished by a minority of resellers and retailers intent on making a quick buck out of a trending product.

“Whilst disposables have a major role to play in the vape market, like all products they need to adhere to the legislation. “Our guidance is designed to ensure retailers keep on the right side of the law.”

The move comes after the UKVIA uncovered ‘mounting evidence of illicit and inappropriately branded disposable vape products’ entering the UK market.

It said the illegal products were being sold both in convenience shops and via major online marketplaces.

A UKVIA spokesperson said: “The association has been in active discussions with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and Trading Standards to address the problem.

“It has now moved quickly to publish guidance for retailers which clarifies the regulations around disposable vape products.”

We must ensure the industry’s reputation is not tarnished by a minority of resellers and retailers intent on making a quick buck out of a trending product.

RAISING THE (FRUNK) BAR

We caught up with industryleader Frunk Bar to hear more about where the brand came from and how it plans to keep moving forward.

Pairing classic, retro designs with industry leading technology, UK-based Frunk Bar quickly grew into one of the most recognisable brands in the world.

Now the disposable of choice for many vapers and smokers, the iconic brand is a leading name in the world of smoking cessation.

We spoke with Frunk Bar director Aftab Sabir to hear more about the minds behind the brand and what plans they have for the future.

What inspired the iconic retro design of the Frunk Bar and why did you decide to utilise this aesthetic?

Retro means to go against the grain, to be different and withstand time - which is what we pride ourselves on with every single product we create.

Our goal is to be the leading brand for flavour, quality and premium service, with our retro look making us stand out from the crowd.

Looking beyond the financial rewards, what is your biggest takeaway from working in the vaping industry?

Vapers want quality tasting vapes and the very best customer service and we intend to go above and beyond in creating products that consumers want.

We aim to smash the ball out of the park in all aspects because, if a customer is happy with every puff, then so are we.

You continue to push the boundaries of innovation and, with that being said, can fans expect anything from Frunk in the near future?

Due to our success, fans now expect the most tonguetantalising flavours…and we promise to deliver only the best products.

However, we also like to maintain the element of surprise, so keep an eye on this space.

Educating and informing clearly play a role in your brand, so what would you say about all the scare stories and misinformation against the vaping industry?

The web is a cluttered space and it doesn’t take much for someone to post misinformation online. Which is why we like to build trust with our fans and invest a lot of time in our online blog.

How would you like to see the brand grow, change and develop over the next five years?

We have big plans and just a few of our goals include:

• To become the best vape brand in the world for customer service

• To get to know our customers on a deeper level and understand what they want to see from the market and

• Provide our current fan base with new products and releases.

We also want to connect with other brands around the world, as we want to see the growth of other brands as well, not just us.

When you first entered the vaping scene, did you expect to become such a widely recognised name in the industry?

As with anything in life, you don’t just stumble your way to the top, you have to fight your way there…and we’ve always had that drive and passion.

With every day that goes by, we are pushing the boundaries of the industry through innovative ideas and products.

Our customers are the main focus of our brand, we only create the mouth-watering flavours that they ask for.

That’s why Frunk is quickly becoming one of the leading vape brands in the world…because we listen to our customers.

Sailing beneath a full moon, on one of the largest yachts in Dubai…the sixth annual Vapouround Awards was our most spectacular yet.

Words: Patrick Griffin

The annual Vapouround Awards evening is always the highlight of the vaping calendar, but the 2021 event will go down as the best one yet.

This was our first live ceremony in two years and we wanted to ensure that it was super special. We came to Dubai to celebrate all that’s great about the industry and we really pushed the boat out…well a massive mega yacht to be more precise.

The Vapouround crew took over the biggest yacht we could find and cruised around the Dubai Marina beneath the light of a full moon. With a backdrop of one of the world’s most impressive skylines, the

social media addicts on board found that they were in Instagram heaven.

No expense was spared to ensure that this was an evening like no other and the Instagram crowd found even more to delight them on the yacht itself.

Our international guests came from near and far to celebrate our industry, let their hair down and, most importantly, find out who this year’s winners were.

From the moment we stepped on board the Lotus Mega Yachtone of the largest in Dubai - it was an evening of pure luxury as we enjoyed a leisurely cruise on the emerald green waters.

Asaxophonist greeted guests as they boarded and there was a free bar for the duration of the night to ensure that everyone got into the party spirit.

This was, without doubt, a Vapouround Awards night with a difference, but there was one thing we simply could not change… our hosts for the evening.

The irrepressible Johnnie Lovell from BH Vape was back on stage with co-host Ashley Hansen, working their own unique style of magic to compere the show.

When they get together to host the Vapouround Awards, nobody knows exactly what is going to happen, except that it will be highly entertaining and memorable.

These two know how to get a party started and keep it going, making them the ideal duo for our evening’s entertainment.

Anyone who has seen them in action will quickly realise two things; Johnnie can’t stop joking and fooling around, while Ashley is one of the few people who can (almost) keep him in check.

The result was lots of laughter from start to finish.

During that time, we had 23 coveted awards to give out and there were spontaneous shouts of joy from around the yacht as the winners were announced.

Be sure to check out the full list of winners in this issue to discover exactly who won what and see more on the VapouroundAwards. com website.

Vapouround CEO Paul Caplin said: “We held a virtual awards ceremony last year due to coronavirus restrictions, so I wanted this to be more spectacular than ever.

“As the World Vape Show was taking place in Dubai, we had the perfect location and we chose this mega yacht as the perfect venue for our iconic Vapouround Awards.

“Organising such a high-profile event in a foreign country and on a huge yacht was an enormous undertaking, but we all pulled together to make it work.

“I am amazingly proud of my entire team, whether they are here in Dubai or back home in the UK.”

Organising such a high-profile event in a foreign country and on a huge yacht was an enormous undertaking, but we all pulled together to make it work.

Paul continued: “I want to thank everyone at Vapouround who went the extra mile and worked hard to make this evening the success it has been.

“This was an absolutely wonderful night, we had fantastic feedback from so many people and we honoured some really great individuals and companies.”

Paul added: “The vape industry is a tremendous power for good and has sprung up from nowhere to help adult smokers quit.

“All around the world, companies small and large work to improve the lives of smokers by providing reduced-risk products which they want to use.

“Everyone here tonight represents the very best of these companies and we are honoured to be part of this amazing community.”

Vapouround Editor Patrick Griffin added: “Six years ago we launched the Vapouround Awards to honour an industry which is dedicated to saving lives.

“We wanted to pay tribute to the brilliance and ingenuity of companies around the world and it is now more important than ever that we continue to do so.

“Day in and day out I see the passion of the global phenomenon which vaping has become, but it saddens me that it is under attack in so many countries and from the powerful and influential World Health Organization.

“The annual Vapouround Awards serves as a reminder of how far we have come, how much we have already done to help adult smokers switch from cigarettes and of how much work remains to be done.

“So, while the 2021 Vapouround Awards ceremony has drawn to a close, it won’t be long before we start planning for the 2022 event and I am looking forward to it already.”

FOOM Lab's mission to aid adult smokers move away from combustible smoking and encourage people to shift to a safer way of consuming nicotine.

VAMPIRE VAPE

CLOSE OUT 2021 ON A HIGH

We caught up with the Vampire Vape crew following our awards show to hear their thoughts on the event and to discover what’s coming up next for this industry leader.

Vapouround Awards 2021 was one of the first major international events where the vaping community could come together again…and Vampire Vape was front and centre.

As a truly global brand, this UK-based e-liquid titan was the platinum sponsor for our biggest and boldest show to date. So, we spoke to the team to hear their thoughts about hitting the Dubai Marina, boarding the Lotus mega-yacht and celebrating the best that vaping has to offer.

HERE’S WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY:

After the COVID-19 pandemic forced the awards online last year, how did it feel seeing some of the biggest industry names gathered in one space again?

It was fantastic to see the industry together, bump into old faces and have the opportunity to network again after a tough two years for everyone.

How did you find setting sail on-board a luxurious mega-yacht for this year’s award show?

Being on-board the yacht was different but felt more casual and was a great way to spend the evening with everybody.

You walked away with two awards this year; how does it feel to be recognised as one of the best brands in the industry?

It’s always great to be recognised for our awardwinning products and it is something that we are proud of as a brand.

How crucial do you think it is for us to celebrate our industry, especially when we are constantly facing misinformation and attacks from outside forces?

What’s important is for the industry to stay together as one to tackle these challenges.

The Vapouround Awards evening is a great opportunity for unity and for everyone to come together as one.

As the main sponsor of the show, what do the Vapouround Awards mean to you?

It’s great to be a part of the Vapouround Awards, as well as the main sponsorship, as it’s an ideal opportunity for the industry to come together and celebrate our achievements.

At the same time as the awards, you were also exhibiting at the World Vape Show, Dubai’s first international vape expo. Was this a successful event for you?

The World Vape Show in Dubai was a very successful show and gave us the opportunity to engage with existing customers whilst also meeting new customers.

We look forward to it again next year!

With the holiday season just around the corner, can loyal Vampire Vape fans expect any festive treats or releases?

Absolutely – watch this space…

Can we expect to see you at the World Vape Show London this December and the Vapouround Awards next year?

Yes, we are looking forward to seeing everybody again in December and sponsoring the Vapouround Awards next year!

Join the UKVIA

Become a member of the UK’s largest and fastest growing trade body representing the vaping industry.

We are a fully inclusive, non-profit organisation owned and run by its members, with a wide range of membership levels to suit your business and your budget.

So why should you join?

• Support from an ever-growing network of industry leaders & regulatory specialists.

• Strengthened by our global alliances with the leading international trade bodies.

• Engagement with political, regulatory and public health stakeholders.

• Added credibility for your business as a recognised member and feature prominently on our members area and store finder.

• Exclusive access to a members resource hub and chat group.

• Free age verification resources and member discounts. ...and much more

Being a member of the UKVIA enables VPZ to be part of the wider engagement and education around the vaping industry with public health bodies and beyond by working together with other likeminded and professional companies that are part of the sector. UKVIA provides a great platform to help realise the the evidence-based life changing public health benefits of vaping products.

Mutter, UKVIA Board Member and Manufacturing and Compliance Director at VPZ

Doug

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL

At the recent World Vape Show Dubai 2021, Vapouround Magazine asked four vape industry experts whether or not they felt optimism

Vaping always seems to be under attack and as soon as one battle is won, there are others ready to take its place.

Despite the evidence, some countries ban the less harmful product out of existence and others impose such draconian restrictions that it may as well be banned.

There are only a minority of countries that actually acknowledge the life-saving potential of vaping and integrate it as part of their tobacco harm reduction policies.

By late September – when the World Vape Show Dubai was in full force – the American Food and Drug Administration had failed to grant a single application for vape products to enter the market. Alarmingly, the FDA rejected 97 percent of all applications, saying it needed more time to decide on the others.

Against this backdrop, Vapouround Editor Patrick Griffin asked a global panel of experts at the WVS expo whether they felt optimistic or pessimistic about the future of the industry.

This is what they had to say:

EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE:

Dustin Dahlmann, CFO, InnoCigs and Chairman of the board, Independent European Vape Alliance (IEVA)

“I am absolutely optimistic about the future of the industry, because people are taking more and more care of their health.

“There are many smokers all over the world and I hope we can solve the problem that they don’t know about the harm reduction potential of vaping products and the benefits they can bring.

“So, I am absolutely optimistic for the future. Whatever regulations we will see, I think we can handle it and we will manage it in the long run.”

for the future.

AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE:

Gregory Conley, President, American Vaping Association

“I am pessimistic when it comes to small and medium sized businesses in America and their future in the vaping industry. “However, when it comes to big companies to compete in the market and go after combustible cigarettes, I am overall optimistic.”

SOUTH AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE:

Kurt

Yeo, Co-Founder,

Vaping Saved My Life

“I am relatively optimistic. Vaping is a disruptive industry and all other disruptive technologies that we have seen in the past have been met with apprehension.

“These do eventually become mainstream and accepted and when this happens the growth spurt comes in.

“It is going to be a tough time but the reality does catch up and therefore I am optimistic about the future.”

UK PERSPECTIVE:

Dunne, Director General, UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA)

“We have a very positive outlook in the UK so overall, I am very optimistic about the future.

“There are groups at work trying to really ruin our industry and we must be very cautious of those influences infiltrating the likes of the UK.

“Other countries look to the UK and take notice that we are taking a different approach to that of the likes of the World Health Organization and the USA.

“We hope our positive science-led sensibility will really resonate now with governments such as the UAE and that they will take that positive step forward.”

“So, I believe we can look forward to a bright future.”

Other countries look to the UK and take notice that we are taking a different approach to that of the likes of the World Health Organization and the USA.

““

John

meta

POD SYSTEM

The Meta Pod System is a new generation of device that delivers fantastic new technology that will allow for a superior vape experience. Our device includes a new feature in the anti-leak protection customers have come to love about MYLE devices.

Our new 2000 puff device includes 3 pods/pack and a larger 2ml tank and still features our patented leak proof technology but with a new spin on the liquid isolation technology safeguarding you from leakage.

Inserting the pod into the Meta device will activate 2 metal prongs hidden in the interior that will release and push up a seal within the pod that once sealed will then trigger the device to saturate the coil with e-juice. Wait time to the first inhale is 30 sec to 1 min.

This device has a 380mah battery, and working in tandem with the mesh coil’s evenly distributed heating capabilities, will deliver consistency in flavor, ultimately providing for an unrivaled vape experience.

This device will deliver consistency in flavor due to an even flavor distribution, will not gunk up your coil and will deliver an easy smooth pull with no burning. Simply put, the new mesh coil technology enhances our already great flavors and the larger tank size will satisfy those looking for a longer lasting device.

THE NEW META POD SYSTEM CONTINUES OUR LEGACY IN DELIVERING THE BEST POD SYSTEM ON THE MARKET DELIVERING AN ADVANCED PREMIUM VAPE EXPERIENCE.

DIRE WARNING OVER US VAPE INDUSTRY

Words: Patrick Griffin

The current situation for the US vape industry is ‘dire’ after regulators rejected millions of applications to allow the sale of e-cigarettes.

American Vaping Association president Gregory Conley sounded pessimistic as he addressed the recent World Vape Show in Dubai.

The Food and Drug Administration had yet to approve a single vape product and there was a huge amount of anger at the millions of applications it had already rejected.

Since then, it has only approved three Vuse vape devices, all from RJ Reynolds which is part of British American Tobacco.

Conley said: “Good people in the vape industry have invested in the best cleanrooms and marketed their products responsibly, but this means nothing to the Food and Drug Administration.

“The FDA is just denying applications for

flavoured products, so right now we are not in a good situation to say the least.

“Even really large companies with big checkbooks and scientists on retainer are getting turned down.

“Turning Point Brands, a publicly-traded company with a $400M-a-year revenue, had their application denied, despite spending millions of dollars in product testing.”

He said the FDA is likely to face ‘a barrage of lawsuits’ from companies who felt the process was stacked against them.

The vape advocate said many businesses were now switching to synthetic tobacco free nicotine to circumvent the regulations.

However, he said that loophole could soon close adding: “We are likely to see states trying to ban all synthetic nicotine products.

“At the same time the federal government is threatening to upend and destroy

virtually the entire industry if they manage to kill vaping products and then go after synthetic nicotine.”

He said new vape taxes were also pending which would disproportionately affect poorer members of society.

Conley said: “Not surprisingly this is a non-starter with us.

“Fortunately, some democrats oppose implementing a devastating tax on nicotine, so we hope there will be enough opposition to strip this out.

“Even if we win this, there is still the problem of this industry facing near destruction.

“We are already starting to see companies close and the fate of many others are up in the air.

“If companies are only selling synthetic tobacco free nicotine products, then they have no security as the law could change next week, next month or next year.”

World Vape Show Dubai is told how lawsuits will follow after regulators deny almost every application to market vape products in the US.

We are already starting to see companies close and the fate of many others are up in the air.

GENE TREE –THE FIRST CERAMIC CORE PRODUCT RELEASED BY ICCPP

This groundbreaking ceramic heating core is the industry’s first non-stick powder-free multi-air ceramic solution.

After more than 450 days of painstaking technological exploration and rigorous scientific research, VOOPOO’s parent company ICCPP has launched its innovative Gene Tree nano-tech ceramic core. The R&D experts working on the Gene Tree project did not rest until the new nano-microcrystalline ceramic core met their exacting requirements to ensure the perfect vaping experience. Tens of thousands of hours of testing were needed to develop the industry’s first non-stick powder-free multi-air ceramic solution.

The goal was to ensure that the Gene Tree ceramic core did not produce any dust when used, which had been a key problem with previous ceramic cores.

The result of all this attention to detail was a long-life heating core which produces excellent flavour beyond your imagination.

Most importantly, the meticulous research allowed that the exacting quality standards demanded by ICCPP could be consistently met in the mass production process.

The collective achievement of numerous global specialists across a series of dedicated teams, the development of the Gene Tree was guided by knowledge and expertise first.

An ICCPP spokesperson said: “We have a number of professional R&D teams led by overseas experts.

“Our team has selected multiple sets of excellent formulations from more than 900 sets of ceramic core formulations to successfully break through the technical bottleneck of the industry.”

From R&D to mass production, creating an industry leading product isn’t without its obstacles, but ICCPP – and its roster of master’s degree and doctorate-level experts - were more than prepared to meet the challenge.

An ICCPP spokesperson said: “The appearance and dimensional consistency of mass-produced ceramics have reached the world

leading level. This indicates that ICCPP’s ceramic core preparation technology has reached the most advanced level of the industry.

“The powder-free process of ‘Gene Tree Ceramic Core’ makes the product healthier, makes the smoking process safer without burning the core, and makes the taste of the e-liquid stronger.”

While the Gene Tree is a first-of-its-kind product for the industry, it’s not the first time that ICCPP has pushed the boundaries of vape technology.

A spokesperson for the brand said that the company has ‘created many remarkable achievements’ for the industry. They highlighted that ICCPP products and services are present on an international scale, spanning across more than 70 countries and regions and boasting an estimated 30 million users.

Dedicated to ‘creating a better future’, ICCPP has spent the last 10-years establishing itself one of the world’s most forward-thinking vape solution providers.

Through its four-pronged strategy – R&D, design, manufacturing and branding - the tech company has pioneered a number of innovative new products and developments.

In 2017, the brand achieved the fastest ignition speed – a rapid 0.025 seconds – and just two years later, it unveiled its universal PnP/TPP platform, set to make the vaping industry even more accessible and user-friendly.

It has even created a 60,000 square-foot manufacturing centre, which holds more than 5,000 employees and produces up to 300 million ceramic cores per year.

This ensures that the brand’s latest vaping developments are readily available for its millions of loyal users.

The Gene Tree is ICCPP’s next step towards that ‘better future’, calling on ceramics – which have been with us for thousands of years – to create an industry shifting product.

From ceramic knives to the ultra-high temperature coatings of spacecraft, ceramics technology embodies human wisdom and the spirit of excellence.

The Gene Tree ceramic core is a perfect example of how many hundreds of minds have come together to produce a product that perfectly demonstrates this ‘spirit of excellence.’

Gene Tree adopts the original M-type heating film topology optimization design of ICCPP, to ensure that not a drop of e-liquid is wasted.

The structure of the film is perfectly matched with the thermal diffusion coefficient to improve overall thermal uniformity.

As a result, the uniformity of the heating film is 45 percent higher and the atomization area is increased by 42 percent compared with the competitors’ products.

Gene Tree’s carefully polished tiny size creates an incredibly lightweight product.

It weighs about 0.07g and its volume is 50 percent smaller than present ceramic cores, which ensures the original flavour of the e-liquid is delivered in a highly-efficient atomization process.

The hierarchical pore structure also ensures a power adaptation range with tests showing that the temperature of the heating surface and the atomization are both stable at four to 11 watts.

Compared to commercially available mainstream products, Gene Tree can raise its safe operation power from eight watts to 11 watts to fully meet the power requirements of different products.

Relying on a perfect match between the heating film and the ceramic substrate, 6.5W atomization tests have demonstrated a five times ceramic core life expectancy compared with the mainstream products on the market.

The ceramic core is not just kinder on vapers, but also on the planet, utilizing a collection of environmentally-friendly mineral materials to help it ‘trace back to the origin and return to nature’.

These natural, rare building-blocks ensure the quality and resilience of the core, improving a number of factors such as toughness and oil storage.

Gene Tree is the latest in a long line of innovative products which are sold across the globe and will ensure that VOOPOO will continue to bring a safer, more hygienic and pure product experience to vapers around the world.

Taken together with the commitment for continued product development and innovation, VOOPOO will continue to develop more national markets in the future, aiming to build one of the most influential global brands.

MOTHER’S ANGUISH AS

SON JAILED FOR 25 YEARS IN DUBAI

A British football coach was convicted of multiple drugs offences after police found CBD vape liquid in his car.

Words: Patrick Griffin

An anguished mother cries herself to sleep at night after her son was sentenced to 25 years in a Dubai prison.

Teaching assistant Breda Hood was beside herself with worry after son Billy was convicted of serious drug charges for having four small bottles of CBD vape liquid and a vape pen in his car.

The 24-year-old London-born football coach – who now lives in Dubai – was arrested in January and has been behind bars ever since.

Billy was dumbfounded when police found the CBD vapes in his car, insisting they were not his.

He said they must have been left behind by a friend from the UK who he had given a lift to the airport to catch a flight home.

Following the arrest, Breda said: “Billy has never been into drugs ever…it’s impossible that he’s guilty.

“My son doesn’t deserve to lose his whole life over CBD oil that wasn’t even his.”

She added: “I have hidden myself away, crying and crying when I imagine what our sweet boy is going through…it’s the worst stress I’ve ever been through and I feel helpless.”

After four days at CID headquarters - the former semi-pro footballer reluctantly signed a confession written in Arabic. Requests to see an English translation were refused.

Billy said: “The next evening, I was taken to Al Barsha police station and kept in an isolation cell for 14 days without any hygiene products…I had no contact with the outside world.”

He then spent nine months in custody awaiting trial where he was found guilty of possession, trafficking and selling the CBD oil. The Hood family, including brother Alexander, are still coming to terms with the fact that Billy could be behind bars until he’s 50.

Alexander said: “Billy is a healthy, fitness-focussed guy…mum never had to worry about him getting into drugs or smoking.

“We never thought for a moment that going to Dubai could be a oneway ticket for him.”

Billy told lawyers that he had a ‘zero-tolerance attitude’ towards drugs and said: “One of the main reasons I moved to the UAE was to pursue my coaching career.

“I have spent six years collecting my coaching badges and would

Picture shows Billy Hood. Picture: Detained in Dubai.

never let something such as drugs ruin everything.”

Now the Detained in Dubai charity is helping Billy appeal his conviction and hopes the court will look again at his case.

Its CEO Radha Stirling said: “Drug convictions are prestigious for police, leading to promotions and kudos.

“Courts do not require substantial evidence to secure a conviction and they are happy to sentence people’s lives away based on third party hearsay or a forced confession.

“Foreigners find it next to impossible to achieve a fair hearing and false allegations are commonplace.”

Breda criticised the Foreign Office for failing to alert Brits about the dangers of being falsely arrested.

She said: “Would people still go to Dubai if they knew they could lose their freedom even though they’ve followed the law?

“I know my son wouldn’t have and British citizens need this information to decide whether to take the risk or not.”

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesperson said: “We are giving consular support to a British man who has been imprisoned in the UAE.”

““

Picture shows Billy Hood photographed with an aunt. Picture: Detained in Dubai.

I have hidden myself away, crying and crying when I imagine what our sweet boy is going through. I feel helpless.

Vapouround Editor Patrick Griffin continues his two-part feature on YouTuber GrimmGreen and learns more about his passion for vaping.

Words: Patrick Griffin

GrimmGreen just wanted to be a regular guy.

Growing up in small town USA, he expected to get a routine job, play video games in the evening and live a normal life. He never expected to stand for anything or have a cause…until vaping came along and changed all that forever.

“Ultimately, I feel so compelled to use the platform that I now have to tell others about vaping. This has become my career and I really wouldn’t do anything else,” he said.

“I owe my life to vaping and helping others quit smoking fuels me.”

While he gets dispirited about the reaction of US regulators and politicians, the YouTube vaping star is determined to do all in his power to promote the reduced-risk agenda.

HE SAID:

“When I talk to politicians here in the US, I often feel like they’re not interested in learning about vaping and really just don’t care.

“I feel like there are a lot of politicians who are just old and out of touch, don’t understand new technology and don’t want to progress forward.

“It kills me that I try to explain vaping to them and I feel that they will never understand it.”

HE ADDED:

“At the end of the day in the US, you just feel unheard. No matter how many times you tweet, call or write an email.”

He is highly critical of organisations like The Campaign for TobaccoFree Kids, which changed their mission from getting children not to smoke cigarettes to declaring that nicotine was the new enemy.

“They switched from campaigning about smoking, which definitely causes harm, to nicotine youth vaping, despite the fact that nicotine alone is putting nobody into hospital,” he added.

“This approach is anti-science and anti-health.

“I think what needs to happen in society is people just need to be okay with someone doing something that you don’t like or may even think is a bad or negative thing.

“We have to be okay with letting people do risky things.”

GrimmGreen said the anti-vaping stance of many US regulators has led to a thriving black and grey market for reduced risk products. He speculated that many companies, who never applied for formal approval to sell their products, would thrive on the underground scene because they were ‘below the radar’ of regulators. However, he predicted that vaping would ultimately win because it was something millions of people enjoyed so much.

“I have a lot of faith, because technology, progress and harm reduction measures like this always win.

“In the 1940s, people were warning against electricity, saying it would make you sterile and erase the memories of children. “A similar thing is happening with vaping now. Progress is slow, but we will reach a point where we all accept that this helps smokers and is less harmful than cigarettes.

“Eventually – just like electricity – people will accept vaping and wonder how we could ever have demonised it for so long.”

When I talk to politicians here in the US, I often feel like they’re not interested in learning about vaping and really just don’t care

““

WHAT ARE THEY THINKING!

Words: Jordan Millar

Advocates are ‘astounded’ with Canadian policymakers for considering a federal flavour ban…but completely ignoring potentially ‘life-destroying’ alcohol.

Critics have called the ‘staggering doublestandard’ an exercise in ‘hypocrisy’, questioning why health officials continue to ignore the evidence.

They warned that the goal of public health policy shouldn’t be to ‘prevent anyone from enjoying flavours’, but to ensure products are used responsibility.

The Canadian Vaping Association said: “As the vaping industry battles to keep flavours for adults, the alcohol sector operates freely and advertises broadly.

“There are countless variations of flavours that line the government-run stores, including watermelon, cucumber and lime, and berry blast vodka.

“The staggering double standard that exists for alcoholic beverages is absurd when compared side by side.”

The consumer group stressed that flavours play a significant role in helping smokers quit, saying that it’s ‘human nature’ to enjoy what you consume.

It also commended countries that have ‘embraced vaping’ and followed the science instead of villainising the reduced risk product.

A CVA spokesperson said: “Through the harm caused by combustible tobacco, nicotine has been miscast as harmful and carcinogenic.

“It is because of the significantly reduced chemicals and lack of combustion that the UK maintains that vaping’s risk does not exceed five percent of tobacco’s.”

Darryl Tempest, Executive Director of the CVA, added: “Canada has seen, through Nova Scotia’s flavour ban, that reducing the appeal of vaping products to smokers results in increased smoking and the destruction of small businesses.

“The proposed regulations are not fit for purpose…Canadians don’t want regulation that causes increased smoking rates and fewer jobs.”

Calls for Canadian government to drop the public health ‘double standard’ and create policies that are fit for purpose.

As the vaping industry battles to keep flavours for adults, the alcohol sector operates freely and advertises broadly

“ “

Beverage and Vape Middle East

Aone-of-a-kind exhibition in its first edition, planned on the 23rd to 24th of March 2022, Beverage and Vape Middle East combines the best of both worlds, liquor and vape all under the sun by the beach! Our show is unique in terms of being held open air, that avoids any kind of pressure the public shall feel

exhibiting in a closed environment of an exhibition hall, due to Covid 19. Dubai, the gateway to the Middle East and North Africa has been chosen as the central point to focus this show and invite traders, distributors and manufacturers to collect and take advantage of the opportunities in the growing economies.

We are aware business has been affected and we would like to offer our support. Concept Zone Group of Companies has decided to offer space free of charge at the upcoming show! The only cost to the client for the exhibition shall be for the exhibition stand fabrication which is mandatory to be contracted through the fabrication team of Concept Zone.

If

plan to participate in both the exhibitions, we shall design accordingly to reuse the fabricated elements of your

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TOUR STORY

Words: Jordan Millar

Despite the mountains of evidence in support of vaping and endless lobbying from impassioned advocates…there are still millions of lives at risk.

And with a crucial tobacco conference taking place this November, it’s never been more important to embrace one of the ‘greatest public health inventions of the century’.

The international COP9 summit will reshape the future of harm reduction policy and the WVA is making sure vaping isn’t left out of the picture. For the past two months, the World Vapers’ Alliance was on its ‘Back Vaping. Save Lives’ tour, taking its electric pink bus to iconic European cities in a bid to save 200 million lives.

Commenting on the tour, WVA director Michael Landl said: “This year is critical for the future of vaping rights in Europe and across the world. “Major milestones will determine if governments seize the opportunity to save millions of lives…or deny smokers the right to a smoke-free life. “The Vape Bus ensures that those making policy decisions are confronted with the evidence and the voices of vapers.” With the goal of ‘making some noise’ and strengthening the community, the WVA invited thousands of vapers to share their stories and write to politicians.

HERE ARE THE EIGHT MAJOR STOPS OF THEIR LANDMARK TOUR.

The Vape Bus ensures that those making policy decisions are confronted with the evidence and the voices of vapers.

“ “

LONDON CALLING… ON VAPERS TO SPEAK UP

We met up with Michael Landl from the World Vapers’ Alliance for the UK stretch of his landmark ‘Back Vaping. Save Lives’ European tour.

Words: Jordan Millar

Armed with an electric pink bus, a team of dedicated helpers and one of the biggest names in vape advocacy, the WVA took to the streets of London. The consumer group set up shop outside the iconic BOXPARK, inviting people to ‘share their stories’ and join the fight for a brighter vaping future. World Vapers’ Alliance director Mi chael Landl called the UK a ‘beacon of hope’ for the industry, praising its ‘progressive’ and evidence-based approach to harm reduction. He said: “Ignoring the science on vaping means refusing the chance at a new life to 200 million people.

“To succeed in fighting smoking, we need governments across the world – and the WHO – to be brave and follow the UK’s lead.” He called on the British public to ‘raise their voices’, write to their MPs and spread the message that vaping saves lives.

And with the tour taking place just ahead of the crucial Conference of Parties (COP9) summit, Landl said it’s vital that consumers join the chorus of voices in support of the reduced risk product.

Michael said: “While the WHO has waged a war on vaping and other alternatives, the UK has led from the front with progressive vape policies. But the WHO’s COP9 global conference will set the direc tion for smoking cessation around the world.

“We came to London to highlight the positive impact vaping has had on the UK and urge it to stand up for vapers worldwide.”

He said it was vital that vapers told how e-cigarettes helped change their lives for the better, so that we could begin to point policymak ers in the right direction.

Michael said: “Few politicians are hardcore anti-vapers...they just don’t know what it is. And that’s the great thing about this bus tour, as we get to hear from vapers and give them a platform to share their story. It’s not only about raising awareness, but it’s also about the individual lives and stories of each and every vaper…we need to raise our voice today.”

We came to London to highlight the positive impact vaping has had on the UK and urge it to stand up for vapers worldwide.

JUST LIKE A MINI F1 RACE CAR ENGINE

E-cigarette heating technology is now so advanced that it draws comparisons with race car engine design.

Words: Patrick Griffin

Making a comparison between the complex ‘engines’ used to power premium vape systems to the engines in Formula One race cars is a bold statement indeed.

However according to Dr Shi Zhiqiang, one of the world’s leading experts in atomiser design, there is a clear comparison between the two.

Dr Shi, the chief scientist at Chinese vaping giant SMOORE, said F1 car engines were designed to get the super-fast cars to speeds of more than 250mph in the quickest possible time.

He said similar complex design processes were used to ensure that e-liquid was vapourised as rapidly as possible to provide an improved user experience.

He leads a global team of scientists working on the world-leading ceramic atomization coil technology made by SMOORE subsidiary

FEELM. Speaking at FEELM’s 2021 UK Media Day held at Silverstone Circuit in Northampton, he said: “The atomization coil is to vaping, as engines are to race cars.

“We work to produce the ultimate engine for vaping so we can achieve the best possible atomisation efficiency in our products.”

He said the constant drive to innovate was vital to ensure that vaping products appealed to smokers so that the switch from cigarettes came naturally.

The FEELM ‘engine’ is used in devices around the world and is number one in many places including China, Canada and several European countries.

Dr Shi predicted that ceramic heating technology would provide the best atomisation for vape devices for years to come.

He said: “Our research suggests that for the next three to five years,

ceramic technology is going to be the dominant technology.

“We are constantly improving the materials and processes to deliver even better performance, so I believe this technology has a very long way to go.”

He said their atomisation technology platform was their ‘core competitive advantage’ and added that it had wider applications outside of the vaping industry.

SMOORE is also working on many medical applications for the heating technology including inhalers and potential delivery systems for future COVID vaccines and treatments.

Dr Shi added: “Atomization is constantly evolving and we at

SMOORE have made it our life’s mission to use it efficiently across industries, especially healthcare for the benefit of mankind.

“The world is still dealing with the after-effects of a global pandemic and technologies such as atomization will enable faster, more efficient drug delivery systems.

“SMOORE has made significant progress on the research of atomized medication over the past three years. This will lead to constantly bettering this technology and ecosystems for use in a variety of applications – be it vapes or medicines, inhalers and vaccines.”

We work to produce the ultimate engine for vaping so we can achieve the best possible atomisation efficiency in our products.

““

CAPABLE AND SERIOUS

Global Tobacco and Nicotine Forum founder says the ENDS industry is now mature enough to let the world see the promise of tobacco harm reduction fulfilled.

Words: Patrick Griffin

The UK is a textbook example for vaping regulation, according to one of the world’s leading voices in the global tobacco harm reduction industry.

Elise Rasmussen, founder and president of the Global Tobacco and Nicotine Forum, described the industry as an ‘exceptional and extraordinary’ force for helping smokers quit.

She warned that, despite the huge amount of progress already made, much more needed to be done.

Speaking at the FEELM media event at Silverstone, she said: “Regulation policies vary greatly across the globe, but I take pride that the United Kingdom, my adopted homeland, has a successful national harm reduction strategy in place.

“While many major markets are still figuring out a regulatory framework, the UK’s early decision to embrace electronic nicotine delivery products is an example of the potential before us all.

“The success and the scientific data that we can generate from cases like the UK will be important parts of the harm reduction dialogue, globally and locally.”

She said the ‘vastly lower’ harm and risk profiles from ENDS products were changing lives for the better around the world.

Elise added: “This industry has empowered consumers to make informed choices and take charge of their decisions.

“Industry leaders like FEELM, along with established and new companies around the world, bring gravitas, investment and responsible product marketing.

“Together with sophisticated R&D and production methods, this helps the industry set higher stewardship and quality standards that are now world class.”

She warned that, as the global debate on flavours evolved, it was vital that the entire ENDS industry took a ‘focused and responsible approach’ to every aspect of its business and its relationship to society.

“Speaking personally, I believe the approach we have now is correct and will demonstrate the capability and seriousness of this industry.

“This approach will also allow for all stakeholders to come together and achieve the breath-taking potential for harm reduction that is before us all…while simultaneously ensuring that minors do not find these products enticing.”

She said constant innovation was needed to offer consumers exciting new and revolutionary products and allow the world to see the promise of tobacco harm reduction fulfilled.

The UK’s early decision to embrace electronic nicotine delivery products is an example of the potential before us all.

“ “

Words: Patrick Griffin

A former adviser to three World Health Organization DirectorsGeneral says there is “absolutely no doubt” that vaping is the most effective way for smokers to quit.

Dr Delon Human said the WHO is happy to promote harm reduction in a number of fields, but refuses to do so for e-cigarettes. He said: “The WHO says wearing a seatbelt gives a 35 percent better chance of surviving a road accident, but when it comes to tobacco the message is either ‘quit or die’.”

Speaking at the FEELM-hosted event at Silverstone, he added: “It is now beyond doubt that e-cigarettes are [considerably] less harmful than cigarettes, so why all the fuss?

“Why is there a worldwide debate where the World Health Organization - the premier technical public health agency on Earth – still does not endorse the use of electronic cigarettes?

“The official statement is that more research needs to be done, but… this is, in real terms, costing lives.”

Dr Human is president of Health Diplomats, a specialised health, nutrition and wellness consulting group which operates worldwide.

He said: “We are at a crossroads in tobacco control where the big issue is that one-in-two of the 1.1 billion smokers in the world will

develop tobacco-related disease and die prematurely.”

Dr Human said reduced-risk alternatives, such as vaping, were the solution and urged regulators to follow the UK’s example.

He said: “Twelve years ago there were 10 million smokers in the UK with almost no users of vaping products.

“Today there are almost four million vapers and smoking has dramatically decreased.

“In many ways, the UK has the best practice in the world for tobacco harm reduction through the use of vaping products.”

Turning to managing risk, he said everyone had a greater understanding of how risk is communicated because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He added: “As a global community, we’ve embraced risk assessment and risk communication and all we ask is that this is also done for tobacco and vaping products.

“We want to see a shift to a more risk-proportionate, regulatory environment, to be applied to vaping products as has been adopted in the UK.

calling for a sensible system of regulation where we make full use of the life-saving capacity of these products.”

A leading health expert calls on world governments to ‘make full use’ of the live saving capacity of vaping and other less harmful smoking alternatives.

“We are

We want to see a shift to a more risk-proportionate, regulatory environment, to be applied to vaping products as has been adopted in the UK.

Organizer Main Sponsor Sponsors

VAPING SCARE

AS ANOTHER LURID STORY RACES AROUND THE GLOBE…

…THE UNIVERSITY BEHIND THE ‘BIZARRE’ STUDY IS ACCUSED OF MISREPRESENTING ITS OWN FINDINGS AND YET MORE HARM IS DONE TO THE CAUSE OF TOBACCO HARM REDUCTION.

Words: Jordan Millar

Auniversity, which claimed vaping does not help smokers quit, has been critised for misrepresenting its own findings.

Making headlines around the world, the University of San Diego report was rubbished for twisting the real science and dismissing the public health successes of vaping.

Even Professor Peter Hajek, whose own work was referenced in the original study, was moved to respond to the ‘bizarre’ report.

He said: “The press release badly misreports the study findings, saying that ‘smokers who quit, but substitute e-cigarettes, are more likely to relapse’… this cohort found no such effect.”

Hajek highlighted that there was no difference in the relapse rates between those who quit without aid and those who switched to vaping.

He added: “If anything, the study suggests that e-cigarette use removes the handicap of tobacco dependance, rather than causing relapse.”

However, this is not the message that news outlets are putting across, with an onslaught of scare stories making their way around the globe.

The UK-based Sun published an article titled: ‘Back to cigs: Over half of smokers who switch to vaping go back to cigarettes, study shows’.

Another – from the Independent – was titled: ‘E-cigarettes don’t help people quit smoking, says new research’.

But the story that saw the most controversy came from US-based CNN, which said: ‘Using e-cigarettes to prevent smoking relapse doesn’t work well, study finds’.

In a thorough and damning breakdown of the CNN news piece, the American Vapor Manufacturers group suggested a new headline.

It said: “Bunk study funded by tobacco tax deserves hard scrutiny, but at CNN we’ll hype it up and add errors of our own.”

The AVM questioned why CNN’s story failed to quote any pro-vaping advocates, independent experts or any of the millions of ex-smokers who quit using e-cigarettes.

It highlighted that, while the article reported ‘evidence’ that vaping isn’t a successful cessation tool, there are plenty of real-world examples that

prove otherwise. The AVM said: “Even the Centers for Disease Control’s own conservative estimate says more than four million Americans have successfully quit thanks to vaping…and many experts say it’s even higher.

“This willfully ignores stacks of studies that show vaping is the single most effective smoking cessation method ever devised…sources galore but CNN contacted zero.”

World Vapers’ Alliance director Micheal Landl said this was a classic example of how ‘fear trumps facts’ when it came to tobacco harm reduction. He said: “The fact is, vaping is one of the most effective smoking cessation methods and this is proven by many studies and health organisations, not to forget millions of former smokers who already quit thanks to vaping.”

Landl said he was disappointed that this particular study made the headlines while a review of 50 studies from the highly-respected Cochrane organisation barely got a mention.

He said even the famously anti-vaping Truth Initiative’s own numbers said that only three-tofive percent of smokers could quit cold turkey. Landl added: “This particular study claims 50 percent. Just this number alone should make every journalist sceptical.

“The reporting on this study is another example that fear trumps facts in the field of tobacco harm reduction. Unfortunately, when it comes to vaping, apparently a scary headline is more important than good journalism.”

The reporting on this study is another example that fear trumps facts in the field of tobacco harm reduction.

“50 percent of smokers who quit cold turkey stayed quit. So 50 percent of the 5 percent who quit cold turkey, so 2.5 percent i.e. almost none. Journalists and the public have a very hard time dealing with the way public health people present relevant evidence as a percentage of a percentage.”

@ChaunceyGardner

“This study is ludicrously misleading, but instead of applying any skepticism, CNN’s analysis somehow manages to make it even worse.”

@VaporAmerican

“Vaping research groundhog day as yet another large, longitudinal study finds ‘no evidence to support the hypothesis that switching to e-cigarettes reduced relapse to cigarette smoking, whether or not e-cigarettes were used daily’.”

@SimonChapman6

“This cross-sectional observational study can’t determine if those who vaped would have made any quit attempts if they hadn’t tried vaping. So called ‘accidental quitters’ often try vaping without the intent to quit smoking, so may ‘relapse’ longer than those who intended to.”

@CASAAMedia

“Two conclusions seem relatively clear at this point: e-cigarettes are likely far safer than their combustible counterparts, and they seem to offer many smokers a pathway to cessation.”

@Vaporadvocate

“Maybe you should do a little reading before writing yet another onedimensional smear piece on vaping?”

@RushmoreExt23

CLAMPDOWN ON COUNTERFEITERS

Disposable vape giant GEEK BAR helped close down seven illegal factories, taking 100,000 black market devices – destined for the UK – out of circulation.

Words: Patrick Griffin

One of the great things about the vape industry is that it moves quickly.

Product manufacturers are used to rapid innovations, keeping up with technological developments to maintain a competitive advantage.

Speed is also of the essence when events unfold which can have a potentially disastrous effect on how the industry is perceived by lawmakers and regulators.

In the news section of this issue, we report on a flood of illegal super-strength devices being sold online and in some convenience stores in the UK.

GEEK BAR disposables, intended for the US market where permitted nicotine strengths are much higher than in the UK and Europe, are among the most popular of the illegal products.

There is also a huge black market in counterfeit products, which are now being manufactured on an industrial scale.

When GEEK BAR discovered that they were being targeted by counterfeiters they moved fast.

The company worked closely with Chinese police to combat some of the big players making fake and potentially dangerous products, which were passed off as genuine GEEK BAR devices.

Seven illegal factories were raided by police and shut down with

their entire stock of knock-off products confiscated.

Several arrests were made and those responsible for the counterfeiting operations face at least three years in prison if found guilty.

More than 100,000 counterfeit vapes, destined for the UK market, were also intercepted and destroyed.

GEEK BAR is now working with UK partners and regulators, so that even more fake products can be uncovered and seized by law enforcement agencies.

Allen Yang, Chief Executive at GEEK BAR, said: “The UK is our biggest market. We will not stand by as our reputation for producing high quality disposable vape products for adult smokers is being damaged by those involved in illegal trading.”

The company is also working with regulators to prevent distributors and retailers selling products - including the GEEK BAR Pro - which

are illegal in the UK.

It said it will report any distributors or retailers to the relevant authorities if they were found to be supplying or selling noncompliant products.

Yang added: “We are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to safeguard our customers from these counterfeit and non-compliant products.

“The scale of fake products is extremely concerning especially given the possible dangers from unregulated e-liquid components and inferior batteries.

He added: “I hope this sends a clear message to those attempting to manufacture fake products or bring non-compliant ranges into the UK…that their illegal activities will not be tolerated.

“We are determined to ensure that our customers are safely protected from this illegal trade.”

We will not stand by as our reputation for producing high quality disposable vape products for adult smokers is being damaged by those involved in illegal trading.

WAKE UP YOU’RE 30 YEARS BEHIND!

The World Health Organization must embrace innovation in tobacco harm reduction and talk to its traditional ‘enemy’the many consumers and experts in the field.

Words: Patrick Griffin

The World Health Organization is being told that it can no longer justify its refusal to endorse vaping and other lower-risk alternatives to smoking.

It is coming under increasing pressure to listen to the evidence from scientists and from the millions of ex-smokers who have used innovative products, such as vaping, to quit.

World Vapers’ Alliance Director Michael Landl says the time has come for the WHO to end its long-running war on vaping.

He said it must withdraw its recommendations for increased taxation, flavour bans or outright prohibition of vaping products.

Landl said: “In recent years, the WHO has rejected the participation of consumers and harm reduction experts in their decision-making process.

“It has become an island unto itself,

The international event is highly influential in helping the WHO set its tobacco control policy recommendations.

The World Vapers’ Alliance said products such as vaping, nicotine pouches and others, had already helped millions of smokers quit and encouraged the WHO to back them.

The WVA said consumers wanted the WHO to provide:

• The recognition and inclusion of tobacco harm reduction methods

• The right to access and affordability for consumers and

• The effective participation of consumers in discussions at COP9.

Landl added: “Ignoring the voices, the

experiences and the vast knowledge of harm reduction experts and consumers, flies in the face of transparency and good governance.

“Smokers and former smokers, consumers of less harmful alternatives and independent tobacco harm reduction experts need to have a voice when it comes to decision-making.”

See the article ‘End the hostilities’ in the news section of this magazine for more.

The WHO has become an island unto itself, an echo chamber of the same tobacco control groups with their view of the world stuck at least 30 years ago.

“

Words: Jordan Millar

A simple, but bizarre message from a quit smoking helpline has sparked confusion and ridicule on social media.

Twitter is alive with criticism over Quitline’s suggestion that you can reduce smoking cravings by simply ‘changing your mug’.

This comes as part of a series of 96 ‘quitting tips and tactics’ from the Australian health group, which encourage smokers to do everything from read a magazine to drink a glass of milk.

However, harm reduction advocates have pointed out a much easier and successful solution to kick the deadly habit…vaping.

Twitter user Pippa’s Live said: “You just can’t make this stuff up…with scientific quit methods like these, can anyone understand why most who ring the quit line fail?

“If it works great, but vaping nicotine is a far more effective quit method than being a mug.”

Why should

Having already helped millions of people switch from cigarettes, vaping has proven itself to be a force for good.

And while we wouldn’t recommend the lifesaving tool to nonsmokers and youths, we would certainly urge the world’s 1.1 billion smokers to give it a try.

A landmark study from the European Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates – which surveyed nearly 28,000 ex-smokers –highlighted just how successful vaping is when compared with other services.

It revealed that, while stop-smoking phone lines and services together supported just 0.7 percent of ex-smokers, over 97 percent said they used vaping to help them quit.

A groundbreaking report from Public Health England also endorsed vaping, calling it the most popular and successful smoking cessation tool amongst Brits.

It said: “Smoking is a leading cause of health inequalities in England and in other parts of the world…and nicotine vaping products could play a crucial role in reducing the enormous health burden.”

LET US IN THERE IS NO COP-ROMISE!

While the world’s media watched the crucial climate change summit, one of the most important tobacco control conferences took place in secret.

Words: Jordan Millar and Patrick Griffin

In a month marked by meetings, protests and crucial decision-making, global leaders set out to tackle two life-threatening problems…the environmental crisis and the smoking epidemic.

With the whole world watching, policymakers gathered to debate the future of our planet…while the fate of more than a billion smokers was discussed behind closed doors.

And, while the COP26 climate conference dominated newsfeeds and headlines, the secretive COP9 tobacco control summit barely saw the light of day.

With the planet on the ‘brink of catastrophe’, delegates from almost 200 countries came together to address the most pressing environmental issues of today.

Alongside advocates and experts, world-leaders set out their roadmap for a more eco-conscious and sustainable future. They said we need to start combatting the decades of damage caused by fossil fuels, pollution and deforestation, warning that we ‘cannot afford’ to ignore the threat of climate change any longer.

Major news outlets from around the globe turned their attention – and cameras – to the Glasgow-based event, providing almost round-the-clock COP26 coverage.

HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THE STORIES AND EXPOSURE:

The WHO tobacco control treaty meetings are closed bubbles of cultivated groupthink.

Held in secret, the World Health Organization’s COP9 conference was a far cry from its environmentally focused counterpart.

It removed most consumers, pro-vaping experts and harm reduc tion advocates from the equation, with many accusing it of pur posefully excluding vital voices and perspectives.

The event – which will likely guide the direction of future tobacco control measures – even kept mainstream media in the dark.

Clive Bates, one of the most prominent voices in harm reduction said: “The WHO tobacco control treaty meetings are closed bubbles of cultivated groupthink.

“It has highly restrictive and opaque practices that ensure it operates as an echo chamber populated by compliant observers.”

He added that, while millions of lives hang in the balance, the health body has established ‘insurmountable barriers’ for those interested in tobacco harm reduction to access the summit.

In his two latest harm reduction flicks, director Aaron Biebert addressed the ‘deadly’ anti-vaping stance of Canadian health officials.

Words: Jordan Millar

Filmmaker and harm reduction advocate Aaron Biebert is once again turning his cameras on the world of vaping.

In a collaboration with VIDA Voices – a crowdfunded group that highlights overlooked issues - Biebert addressed the ‘spectacular failure’ of Canada’s anti-vaping policies.

The acclaimed director – alongside consumers, experts and a dedicated film crew – highlighted the ‘deadly consequences’ of draconian regulations through two new mini docs.

Biebert urged Canadian policymakers to choose ‘perspective over panic’, with his eye-opening new projects showing how widespread flavour bans, tax hikes and nicotine caps can devastate public health.

The documentaries - ‘A Spectacular Failure’ and ‘Death & Taxes’ –saw thousands of views online, with advocates from around the world celebrating their harm reduction message.

This mini doc stressed that strict anti-vaping policies would only fuel a dangerous and growing black market.

It highlighted that flavour bans, nicotine caps and tax hikes hurt legitimate businesses, while paving the way for illicit sellers who don’t care about the consequences.

Biebert said: “If we want to protect citizens, reasonably regulated products, sold by professionals with moderate taxes, is the most logical way…black markets are not.

“It might be hard to picture this unregulated future, but we know people are going to make these products at home, because they’ve already started.”

Biebert spoke with retired English teacher Marion Burt, who started making her own e-liquid after deciding she didn’t want to be at the beck and call of ‘ignorant’ anti-vapers.

She said: “I don’t want to do this; I feel like a traitor doing this…but I feel betrayed by the people who should have been protecting us. “And I would to never have done it, but they are not going to send me back to smoking.”

Here Biebert urged policymakers to steer clear of unnecessary tax hikes and bans.

He warned that limiting access to life-saving products could see millions of Canadians condemned to death, stressing that extortionate vape taxes only force people back to smoking.

Guest speaker and Economics Professor Dr Ian Irvine claimed that many regulations fail to acknowledge the public health potential of vaping.

He said: “Most of the measures that I see are designed to limit vaping and they miss out on the opportunity to help smokers get off what’s going to kill them.”

Biebert added that a lot of Canada’s harm reduction policies focus on the alleged ‘youth vaping epidemic’, but pricing reduced risk products off the market could give smokers the wrong idea.

He said: “Discouraging Canadians everywhere from using the most effective ways to quit smoking might be good fundraising material, but it is not good health policy.

“Placing sin taxes on helpful products sends the wrong message and we don’t need dangerous taxes that lead to more death.”

Discouraging Canadiansmosteverywherefromusingthesmokingeffectivewaystoquitfundraisingmightbegood material,butitisnotgoodhealthpolicy.

THE VAPE CRUSADER

Words: Jordan Millar

A senior minister in the Thai government is facing a barrage of criticism for daring to speak up in support of vaping. With 10 million smokers in Thailand, digital economy minister Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn questioned whether e-cigarettes could be the solution to the nation’s smoking epidemic.

However, this flew in the face of the country’s anti-vaping stance, with politicians and health bodies condemning the reduced risk alternative.

Even the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand joined the chorus of critics, calling for Chaiwut to be hit with an official caution. But the pro-vaping minister doesn’t stand alone, with consumers and experts from around the globe rallying behind him.

Harm reduction advocate Nancy Loucas commended his campaign to overturn Thailand’s strict vape regulations, urging other government officials to follow suit.

She said: “What rock have these people been living under? The minister deserves a medal, not mockery. The government has failed to adopt effective policies and programmes that will significantly

reduce the country’s sky-high national smoking problem.

“If it wants to save lives, it needs to urgently rethink its ban on vaping product sales.”

She stressed that ‘a decade of research’ has proven vaping to be 95 percent less harmful than cigarettes and that countries which adopt progressive regulations see a far greater drop in smoking rates.

But groups like the National Alliance for a Tobacco-Free Thailand (NATFT) claim vaping will only exacerbate the country’s public health crisis.

Now armed with mountains of evidence – and an international backing – Chaiwut is exploring how legalising vaping could be the key to saving millions of lives.

Nancy Loucas said: “He is on the side of science and his calls have exposed the fact that Thailand has fallen well behind when it comes to adopting effective tobacco harm reduction policies.

“Support for the minister has gone global and this should be a massive wake-up call for Thailand’s government.”

A pro-vaping Thai politician is criticized at home, but praised around the world for his science-backed stance on tobacco harm reduction.

Support for the minister has gone global and this should be a massive wake-up call for Thailand’s government.

AMERICA IS STILL IN THE GRIP OF A GROWING YOUTH VAPING EPIDEMIC

Words: Patrick Griffin

What happened when the US Food and Drug Administration authorised just one single vape product for sale on the American market?

There was an outpouring of outrage from critics who chimed in with the same weary and predictable complaint that it would fuel the ‘youth vaping epidemic.’

The pressure group Parents Against Vaping was quick to take to social media to make its views known.

It said: “The FDA must deny ALL flavoured products…for the protection of public health. Big Tobacco is preying upon and addicting millions of kids!”

Senator Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut was just as vocal.

He tweeted: “Greenlighting e-cigarettes—with a teen vaping epidemic underway—seems to raise huge public health dangers. There are safer, sounder ways to end tobacco use and addiction.”

The only small problem is that the USA is NOT in the grip of any such epidemic.

According to the FDA’s own official figures, youth vaping numbers have been on the decline for two years.

Data released jointly by the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control showed that teen vaping plunged by more than 40 percent in 2021 compared to the year before.

In the past two years teen vaping rates have dropped by 60 percent, from more than five million to two million.

Acclaimed author and tobacco harm reduction activist David P Forsyth said the figures showed that more young people had quit vaping than those who started or continued combined.

He said: “This was a fad fuelled by hyped publicity of the new forbidden fruit. Luckily it is less harmful or addictive than smoking.”

Anti-vaping activists constantly highlight the spiralling vaping rates amongst school children, but the evidence is against them also.

Official statistics reveal that in the past year, vaping fell from 19.6 percent to 11.3 percent amongst high schoolers and from 4.7 percent to 2.8 percent in middle schools.

Gregory Conley, president of the American Vaping Association, said it was ‘absurd’ that the FDA was ‘trying to ban nearly every product currently on the market’ when its own research showed that flavoured vaping products helped adult smokers quit.

He said: “We need to do more to combat youth usage of not just vaping, but tobacco products, cannabis, and alcohol as well.

“All stakeholders in this debate should be pleased to see youth vaping fall for the second year in a row.

“Unfortunately, since the FDA has already dedicated itself to a path of moral panic and prohibition, these results are not being trumpeted as a victory.

“Rather, the FDA is twisting the data to justify its actions over the last month, which have caused millions of adult vapers and thousands of small business owners to fear for their futures.”

Unfortunately, since the FDA has already dedicated itself to a path of moral panic and prohibition, these results are not being trumpeted as a victory.

HONESTY IS THE BEST PUBLIC HEALTH POLICY

Has this US-based pressure group, deadset on ridding the world of nicotine, taken things too far?

In an effort to change public perceptions, the anti-vaping non-profit Truth Initiative launched a fictional company selling fake ‘Depression Sticks’.

It then masqueraded as the new kid on the block, claiming it was the ‘only vape company’ to be ‘honest’ about its dangerous products.

The group even sent its ‘VP of marketing’ – armed with promotional materials and a controversial pitch – to try and ‘sell some depression’ to stores across the country.

Before long, confusion amongst Americans turned to all out fury, when Truth Initiative finally revealed it was behind the multimillion-dollar marketing campaign.

Advocates condemned the group for claiming that nicotine ‘amplifies feelings of anxiety and depression’, accusing it’s anti-vape effort of ‘misrepresenting the science’.

Greg Conley of the American Vaping Association said: “Despite their moniker, Truth Initiative has repeatedly shown themselves to be anything but truthful. "No serious public health researcher

By implying – with no evidence – that nicotine exacerbates conditions like depression, Truth Initiative seems to be doing more harm than good.

believes that a mild stimulant like nicotine actually causes or worsens depression.”

He added: “This insulting campaign came about not because they saw science supporting their new message, but because polls have shown youth are concerned about their mental health.”

Shockingly, a recent Truth Initiative report admitted that there was no ‘causal link’ between nicotine and mental health issues…completely debunking the Depression Stick message.

But experts warn the damage is done, with the barrage of ‘TikTok takeovers’, pop-up shops and nationwide adverts warping the

public opinion on vaping.

Alex Norcia of Filter Mag wrote: “By implying – with no evidence – that nicotine exacerbates conditions like depression, Truth Initiative seems to be doing more harm than good.

“The evidence suggests that people with mental health issues use nicotine because it helps them.

“Are we going to allow, yet again, a baseless concern for the youth to supersede harm reduction for the millions of Americans who smoke?”

Truth Initiative is now facing a major backlash, with consumers and advocates demanding the group be held accountable for its ‘sensationalised’ and ‘scientifically wrong’ PR stunt.

One twitter user said: “Making a mockery of serious mental health issues? That should be against the rules.

“What will someone with actual depression think should they stumble on this…you have gone too far!”

Hundreds more have since taken to social media to speak out against the campaign for ‘exploiting mental illness’ to further its agenda. Here’s what just a few of them had to say:

Words: Jordan Millar

Fury after an organisation dedicated to ‘spreading the truth’ launched a fake brand and ‘misrepresented science’ in its latest anti-vaping effort. “

WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED!

Advocates and experts from around the world launch a 24-hour, five-day vaping summit to compete with the WHO’s tobacco control conference.

Words: Jordan Millar

An impassioned group of vapers, advocates and experts vowed they ‘will not be silenced’ ahead of a secretive tobacco control summit. This year marks a crucial turning point in the future of harm reduction, with the World Health Organization’s COP9 conference setting the direction of global policy. And while the event was held online and ‘behind closed doors’, the vaping industry refused to be left out of the picture. Advocates from across the globe rallied together to organise a competing, round-the-clock conference, where panelists ‘scrutinised’ the health body’s anti-vaping stance.

The five-day sCOPe event – streaming Consumers On Point everywhere – was broadcast on Facebook and YouTube, making it easy for people to tune in. It featured some of the biggest names in harm reduction, who challenged the WHO’s ideology-driven policies and endorsed the life-saving potential of vaping.

Ahead of the event, organiser Nancy Loucas said: “Given over one billion people in the world still smoke cigarettes, it’s outrageous the WHO continues to obstruct access to safer alternatives. “Its poisoned position is increasingly untenable…but we will not be silenced.” Including talks on advocacy, consumers, nicotine and more, the independent event offered evidence that directly stands against the scourge of misinformation and anti-vaping propaganda. Loucas said: “We know COP9 will do its best to totally undermine vaping, despite it safely helping millions of smokers over the past decade to quit deadly cigarettes. But sCOPe is our response to being excluded from the table and the decision-making process that directly impacts our health and our right to make informed decisions.”

Given over the world still smoke cigarettes, it’s outrageous the WHO continues to obstruct access to safer alternatives.

WORLD VAPE SHOW DUBAI

Words: Patrick Griffin

This event was put together so well, that it looked like the organisers had been doing this for years.

It ran like clockwork from start to finish and everyone I spoke to said they loved the show.

For me, it was great to be back at a live vape event, experiencing all the buzz and excitement that comes with it.

I was overjoyed to discover that the loud music that dominated many shows of the pre-Covid era was absent.

I could never understand why many previous vape shows were so loud that it was impossible to talk without shouting.

Everything about this show was impressive. The registration process was flawless and I loved the fact that there was the option to download entry passes to your phone or collect the old-fashioned lanyard pass instead.

Judging by how slick and professional this groundbreaking three-day event was, it is hard to believe that this was the very first vape show to be held in Dubai.

It was clear that exhibitors wanted to really impress for this Dubai first and they spared no expense in making sure their booths attracted maximum attention.

I lost count at the number of people who were taking selfies in front of their favourite stands and I’m sure that Instagram was on fire with pictures from this event.

One difference from previous shows I have attended, is that vaping was limited to a number of designated areas around the exhibition hall and I felt this actually worked well.

This event had a packed conference schedule in place over the three days and I found the talks really interesting and informative. This was an integral part of the show and attracted many expert speakers from all over the world.

As vaping has only recently been legalised in the UAE, there were talks aimed at helping businesses understand the laws and regulations which govern doing business there.

Experts on the legal frameworks in Europe, Africa and Asia also explained the rules and

regulations in those key markets.

Innovations in vaping, tips on building and branding and a deep dive into the UAE vaping market were other important speeches on the agenda. I can honestly say this was one of the best conference line-ups I have ever seen.

It was great to see so many big names from around the world including Zeus Juice, Dr. Vapes, Charlie’s Chalk Dust, Snowplus, VooPoo and Xtra (the best-selling disposable in the Middle East), to name just a few.

The exhibitors I spoke to were thrilled to be part of World Vape Show Dubai and a lot of business was done during the three days. It was also great to meet Omar and the team from our UAE media partners Vape Paper and they went out of their way to make us feel welcome.

This show was a spectacular success and I have no doubt that next year’s event will be even better still.

I can see World Vape Show Dubai growing to become one of the ‘must attend’ expos on the international scene and I can’t wait for the next one.

VAPEXPO PARIS 2021

PARIS EVENT CENTER 16-18 OCTOBER 2021.

Nestled in the vibrant La Vilette region, a short drive from the Eiffel Tower, sits the Paris Event Center.

Boasting over 32,000 sqm, the contemporary building is the go-to venue for many large-scale events, including Vapexpo Paris 2021.

On arrival at this year’s show, it was clear that exhibitors had gone all out…and who could blame them?

As one of the first expos out of lockdown, this event gave people an excuse to book the biggest booths and show that they meant business post-COVID.

Two of the three days were dedicated to press and professionals, which opened the door for lots of B2B networking. There were plenty of French companies exhibiting at the show, as well as a good number of foreign brands as well.

Household names from Vaporesso to Vampire Vape were there, putting their internationally-recognised products on show in the City of Light.

But more than anything, it was nice to see so many like-minded vapers gathered in one place once again.

The venue was brimming with visitors, all eager to see what the ‘not-to-be-missed’ event had in store.

And after eight years and 14 shows, it’s fair to say that Vapexpo certainly know how to put an exhibition together.

Everyone was trying new liquids and freely vaping, which was definitely a welcome sight and a good sign of things to come from future events.

After a two-year hiatus, physical vape events are finally returning to the UK… and the World Vape Show London is the first in line.

Words: Oliver Smith

UK vapers are getting an extra Christmas treat this year, with the World Vape Show touching down in London. This comes hot on the heels of its hugely successful event in Dubai, which attracted some of the biggest brands from around the world and helped kick-start the industry once again.

Boasting an expansive exhibitor list and jam-packed event schedule, the long-awaited two-day show will run from December 10-11 at ExCel London…and we can’t wait to see you there.

Ahead of the exhibition, Vapouround Editor Patrick Griffin said: “After two long years of waiting, the UK vape community deserves to let its hair down.

“We’ve been without physical events for far too long and this exhibition is just the tonic that the UK industry needs.

“I really enjoyed the World Vape Show Dubai and I can’t wait to see what they have in store this time.”

Here are just a few of the things you can look forward to.

WVS CONFERENCE

If it’s expert speakers and hot-topic discussions you’re after, then look no further than the WVS conference.

With over 30 talks available to watch, you can hear a host of industry voices talking about innovation, the international market and so much more.

THE EXHIBITION

Featuring hundreds of exhibitors, the World Vape Show London will have no shortage of stands to visit.

Brands from across the globe will showcase their products and businesses will have the opportunity to meet, network and make new connections.

ENTERTAINMENT ARENA

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main show, you can find sanctuary in the Entertainment Arena.

Hosting live music, food and drink and giveaways, this will be your onestop spot to unwind and have some fun.

We’ve been without physical events for far too long and this exhibition is just the tonic that the UK industry needs.

E-LIQUID

VAPOUROUND REVIEWS

HARDWARE

Please note: All hardwa re and e-liquid reviews a re reviewed by external reviewers a

nd do not necessarily represent the opinion of Vapouround Magazine. All e-liquids are reviewed at a 3 mg nicotine level. Mod reviews a re rated on specific criteria depending on the style of products received.

IORE LITE

SPECIFICATIONS:

Pod capacity - 1.6ml

Coil resistance - 1.2 Ohm Kanthal (fixed)

Battery capacity - 350mAh

Output modes - Constant voltage

Max charging current - 500mAh

Dimensions - 112mm x 21mm x 12mm

Assembled weight exc. packaging (approx.) - 25g

Words: Peach Atkinson

Pod systems are a personal favourite of mine. As a previous user of mechanical mods, I have now settled nicely with simple, discreet and inexpensive devices that suit me perfectly.

Eleaf has a good reputation when it comes to hardware - especially pod systems. Their new device, the IORE Lite, is presented in a small box that includes information leaflets, a USB-C cable and a pod with a 1.6ml capacity.

Pods are sold separately and feature a side fill port that will accommodate gorilla bottle style nozzles with no issue.

I found it incredibly simple to fill and it was easy to see how full it was, due to its translucent finish. Despite only being a 1.6ml capacity, the e-liquid in the pod seemed to last a fair while before needing to be refilled. I didn’t experience any leakages at all.

This kit has a rechargeable 350mAh battery and is quickly powered up again within 40 minutes via USB-C.

It continues to hold power for around half a day of moderate vaping which is a decent amount of time in my view. A small LED light indicates when the device is activated.

Having a resistance of 1.2 Ohm, this kit works best with highstrength nicotine e-liquids - especially nicotine salts. The hit when using 20mg/ml was intense and warm, and the flavour it gave was pretty impressive for such a device.

Cloud production was both modest and discreet, ideal for day-to-day vaping.

Each pod claims to last roughly 3,000 puffs before needing to be changed, depending on what e-liquid you are using.

The IORE Lite is a true MTL (mouth-to-lung) set up and it replicates

the inhale found with cigarettes very well, so is a perfect choice for new vapers wanting to quit smoking. To add to its straightforward nature, there are no buttons needed to operate this kit, it is simply draw activated when you puff.

Ergonomically, the IORE Lite is tiny in stature, and fits easily in the tiniest of pockets. It weighs just 25g - half the weight of a pouch of tobacco and much smaller in size too.

The IORE Lite comes in a variety of attractive colours and has a smooth, rubberised finish that gives a solid grip and does not mark easily.

One of the most appealing features of this kit would be its price point, it has a recommended retail price (RRP) of just £9.99 - less than a pack of cigarettes.

Easy to operate with an impressive performance and an affordable price, the IORE Lite is a perfect choice for new vapers. Charging is speedy, filling the pod is simple and the tight draw manages to mimic the inhale found with cigarettes. I would highly recommend this kit to smokers who are looking to quit.

PROS

- Straightforward to operate

- Very affordable

- I enjoyed the MTL inhale

CONS

- I would like to see removable coils

- I would like there to be another spare pod included in the box

XROS MINI

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 98.9 x 23.4 x 13.5mm

Pod Capacity: 2ml (TPD)

Pod Resistance: 1.2 Ohm (included and 0.8 Ohm mesh (not included)

Battery Capacity: 1,000mAh

Battery Output Power: 11W/16W

Charging: USB Type-C, 5V/1A

Words: Peach Atkinson

The Vaporesso XROS Mini encapsulates the very definition of a good pod system. It’s small, has refillable and replaceable pods that work best with high-strength nicotine e-liquids and also features a built-in rechargeable battery.

It is compact, discreet, comes in a decent variety of colour combinations and has a textured finish on one side that also features subtle Vaporesso branding.

The outside of this device is about as simple as it gets as there is no screen display or operation buttons. The only functional addition is the USB-C plug on the bottom.

Despite its rather small stature, the XROS Mini has a substantial weight to it that emphasises a quality feel when holding the device. The shape of this kit is rather boxy but has understated and subtle curves on the edges, making it extremely comfortable to hold.

The XROS Mini utilises a straightforward auto draw technique making it as easy as possible to use for new vapers.

It makes use of replaceable pods with built in coils, making it easier to fill and maintain, especially for those new to vaping.

Filling the pod itself is just so easy. A one-way valve accepts smallnozzled e-liquid bottles and significantly reduces any chance of leaking.

The pod is translucent in colour making it easy to see the fill level and avoiding over-filling. The only drawback I found was that taking the cap off the pod was rather tricky, and I had to use a lot of grip to remove it.

The pod (and therefore also the coil) included in the box offers a decent flavour and an impressive hit. I felt that the inhale on the 1.2 Ohm pod was a somewhat tight mouth-to-lung and therefore found it worked best with 10-20mg e-liquids, as it gives a smooth yet satisfying experience.

Coil longevity is adequate and lasts roughly five-to-seven days before losing flavour. Cloud production is minimal, but for me that is perfect, as I enjoy having a discreet amount of vapour in public. This small kit features an outstanding 1,000mAh battery, whereas many similar-sized pod systems are around the 350-750mAh range. This means that battery life is incredible for such a petite kit. It lasted a full two days before it needed charging and with the USB-C port, it took no time at all to be restored to full power.

One of the most attractive features of pod systems is their diverse audience. They are a simple and an inexpensive option for new and veteran vapers alike.

The most basic goal of vaping is to quit or cut down on smoking, and the XROS Mini helps achieve that splendidly. It is truly a device for all, and the performance of this little kit makes it easy to see why.

PROS

- Super simple to operate and maintain

- The 1,000mAh battery lasts ages

- I liked how the pod was see through, allowing me to easily fill it without overfilling

CONS

- The top part of the pod was a little difficult to remove at first

- Having both the 1.2 Ohm and the 0.8 Ohm pods included would’ve been even better

POWER DISPOSABLE

SPECIFICATIONS:

Pod capacity: 2ml pre-filled juice

Puffs: Approx 600

Nicotine content: 20mg

Words: Paul Johnson

I thought I’d try something different with these disposables. Having tried so many disposables that they are becoming very samey, I thought I would put the actual puff count to the test rather than concentrate purely on flavour profiles.

The device itself is of the slim flat design with the tapered flat mouthpiece, which is comfortable both in the hand and pocket.

Not a huge nicotine vaper, this 20mg device is going to be a test. I’ve picked the Creamy Tobacco to be the test object. Starting at 10am I will use and record the puff count until it either runs out of liquid or the battery gives up.

First off, the draw is a little loose for my MTL vape and I found myself either taking a double draw or direct vaping, which at 20mg is no mean feat for me. That being said, the vape is smooth and not harsh at all.

Well, I got to midnight and the Power is still going strong, so I’ll keep going tomorrow.

So, at 15:27 the battery has died. The puff count sits at a very commendable 762, now I know this will vary for everyone as we all vape differently, but that was my number for my vape style.

A good solid performance from the Power disposable. So, a quick run through of the flavour profiles.

Creamy Tobacco

Starts off with a rich sweet cream then a deep oak-like tobacco

comes in. A very pleasant vape.

Energy Ice: Your favourite energy drink with an ice shot. Good energy drink taste but, for me, the ice is a little too much.

Starfruit Kiwi

Having never tried a real starfruit, I can’t say if it’s a good representation or not but the combination with the kiwi gives for a very nice vape.

Pink Lemonade

A real lemon taste, sharp and tangy on the inhale, but leaves a sweet taste after exhale. More like an old school cloudy lemonade.

Sour Apple

A good apple taste which soon moves to being sour, leaving a tingling taste all around the mouth. I found it made my mouth dry and wanting a drink. Probably one to take to the pub!

PROS

- Delivered on performance

- Great flavours

- Great design

CONS

- Draw is a little too loose

HADRON PLUS

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 58*34*98MM

Battery: 2x21700/ 20700/ 18650 (Not Included)

Input Voltage: 6.0V- 8.4V

Battery Voltage: 3V-4.2V

Output Voltage: 0.2V-8.0V

Power Range: 1-200W

Current Range: 0.5A-30A

Max Charging Current: 3A (2A suggested)

Temperature Range: 200°F-600°F

Screen Pixel: 0.9” (80*160 pixels) full Color TFT

Today I’m taking an in-depth look at the Hadron Plus mod by Steam Crave.

This absolute monster of a unit houses two 21700 batteries and features the incredible DNA 250c chip by Evolve.

As you would expect from a mod that utilises a DNA chip, there is a huge amount of customisation available, with everything from wattage and temperature to the curve of the power as you vape all easily modifiable.

I definitely think this is a mod for more advanced vapers who want to dial in the perfect settings for their ultimate vaping experience. ‘Replay mode’ is one of my favourite features – this lets you record your perfect puff and it will then save all the settings and ensure that every subsequent vape will deliver the same consistency and level of performance.

I definitely think it’s worth having a play around with this mode and finding what works best for you, as I really noticed a huge difference in quality of vape after some tinkering.

Also included is a robust and massively customisable temperature control mode and an interesting watts boost function that boosts the power up as you press the button then drops down to your desired wattage. This helps to get the power where you want it faster. With a max power of 200W you have a lot of room to play with, regardless of what tank or RDA you want to use on top of the Hadron Plus.

Battery life is absolutely no concern thanks to the two 21700 battery slots, found behind a door on the back of the mod, secured with nice strong magnets that never feel like they’re going to fail.

I usually take my batteries out of devices and charge them using an external battery charger, however I have charged the Hadron Plus several times using the onboard micro USB port and it is definitely a good option that I don’t usually recommend on most mods. The only

criticism I could possibly level at the Hadron Plus is that, for me, the screen could do with being a bit larger.

With the huge amount of information that the DNA 250c chip can show you, it sometimes becomes a little overwhelming to see everything on the 0.9 inch display.

In terms of build quality, Steam Crave has absolutely smashed it out of the park. The mod feels completely solid, everything feels smooth and easy to use. Although the mod is large it feels very comfortable to hold and operate. All the buttons are nice and clicky and the battery door feels extremely secure.

Performance wise, I’ve thrown everything I have at the Hadron Plus, from sub-Ohm tanks to mouth-to-lung tanks to RDA’s and RTAs and it handles everything perfectly. The amount of customisation offered by the DNA chip means that given a few minutes, I can always dial in the perfect vaping experience for me personally.

With the Hadron Plus mod by Steam Crave, you will be blowing satisfying and tasty clouds in no time.

PROS

- Massive amount of customisation thanks to the DNA chip

- Excellent feel and build quality

- Onboard charging is great!

CONS

- Screen is slightly too small for my liking in some situations.

Words: Alex Shenker

Words: Peach Atkinson

Seriously Slushy Grape Soda

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

A modern take on a classic American soda, this e-liquid encapsulates both a subtle menthol and a fruity blast, bursting with flavour. Many grape flavours I have tried over the years have had an unpleasant, aftershave taste to them but there is none of that here. The grape is candy-like in nature and is full, juicy and gives vapers an enjoyable flavour. A subtle tone of coolness rounds up the fruitier notes in an understated manner, not taking the attention away from the effervescent grape.

The powerful grape elements were the most impressive to me, as they managed to convey the profile accurately.

Seriously Fruity Strawberry Kiwi

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Sweet, sumptuous strawberries take up the majority of the inhale and they soon collide with sour and sharp kiwi fruit.

The kiwi tastes very realistic and is not too sweet, making it an incredible addition to a softer, more rounded strawberry. The overall flavour is potent and full bodied, offering vapers a powerful and mouth-watering experience that is sure to impress. I particularly enjoyed the combination of the strawberry being ever present and the kiwi popping in halfway through the exhale. You can tell that the creators of this flavour have spent time perfecting it.

Seriously Nice Frozen Apple Berry

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Sour flavours are quickly regaining popularity. This e-liquid not only offers sourness, but also fruity elements and a blast of ice. Lip-puckering green apple is sharp and fragrant, yet has a discreet sweetness to it that is rather bewildering. Next, the taste of plump, juicy berries offers a tart and reinvigorating sensation that is both complementary to the apple and yet seems to stand on its own pretty well too.

All of these flavours are then rounded up in a wave of coldness that will surely give this e-liquid a chance to shine.

Seriously Slushy Mixed Berries

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Back in the day, the choice between red or blue slushies was a no brainer for me, it always had to be blue. But what did ‘Blue’ taste like? Well, it tasted just like this e-liquid. I was over the moon to have finally found a flavour that managed to replicate that nostalgic taste immaculately. A complex blend of succulent berries, including an unmistakable blue raspberry, with a mix of strong flavours all vying for your attention.

The berry notes are soon met with an icy undertone that cools the whole e-liquid in a very refreshing manner. This e-liquid did not disappoint.

Seriously Fruity Blue Razz Berry

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Blue raspberry flavours are a dime a dozen right now, but many lack the complex and well-rounded sweetness found in this particular e-liquid. They have managed to nail this flavour perfectly. There is absolutely no hint of a chemical aftertaste nor any unpleasant, lingering harshness.

The blue raspberry itself is sweet, juicy and is very similar to the chewy candy found mainly in the United States.

This e-liquid is extremely well made, making this flavour an easy one to vape.

Seriously Nice Lychee Citrus Chill

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

This flavour features a complex and layered set of ingredients, all of which combine to create an unmissable and tasty vaping experience.

Lychee is probably the most prominent flavour and is both sweet and mouth-watering. I found it had an intense and aromatic essence.

Following the luscious lychee, a sharp, but subtle, mix of citrus fruits offered a contrasting taste to an already enjoyable flavour. Finally, the main part comes last - a biting iciness that will completely clear your sinuses.

Words: Paul Johnson

(100ml shortfills)

Ratio VG/PG: 70/30

Devil’s Drank

The first draw gives a massive hit of eucalyptus then a sweet fruity flavour lingers before a cool menthol on the exhale. It’s strange because the smell of the liquid has an aniseed note to it, but I’m not getting it. A quick check of the flavour profile and aniseed is listed in there. After a few more tries I could taste it. The aniseed is either very subtle or is being subdued by the eucalyptus. Either way, with or without aniseed this is a great vape.

Pink Fire

My first impression is strawberries and cream, but it’s so much more than that. There is a mixed fruity taste lingering in the background that seems to enhance the freshness of the strawberry while the cream is so thick and lush. The cream has just the right amount of sweetness and this is really like having a dessert. Another winner.

Unicorn Tears

Whilst filling my tank I can already smell strawberries and, sure enough, the first hit is a massive strawberry taste. This comes in the form of a thick, creamy, strawberry milkshake and is followed by a real surprise…a rich, deep and creamy biscuit background. The combination works really well and I feel that the strawberry-tobiscuit ratio is spot on.

Okeanos Reloaded

Basically this is Diamond Wings with a cool icy finish that gives this liquid a more refreshing taste. For me it was not as strong on the fruit side as Diamond Wings and this results in a slightly less sweet vape. Overall, I found this to be is a really good range of e-liquids.

Diamond Wings 2020

This is described as a Blue Raspberry Candy. Blue Raspberry has been around for a while and many companies have their own versions of this. Some are sweet and a little sour, while others are sour with a little sweet. This one starts off fruity, is then sour and finally is slightly sweet. This is another good liquid.

Bubble Gum Zilla

This is probably the best representation of Hubba Bubba I’ve tried, albeit with a slightly fruity ending. Straight from opening the bottle the distinctive smell hits you, then the draw fills the mouth with that same distinctive taste. This is an excellent juice.

Words: Peach Atkinson

DOCTOR FOSTER: Black Pearl

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

This e-liquid offers notes of deep, succulent and somewhat sour blackcurrant, followed closely by a delicate taste of juicy blueberries. The most noticeable flavour element though, was the exceptionally cool menthol kick. It was powerful enough to take over the more subdued berry notes, but in an intriguingly well-executed manner. The vast majority of fruit and menthol flavoured e-liquids I have tried, tended to be more focused on the fruity side of things, with menthol taking a back seat. Black Pearl, however, seemed to be more menthol-based, with the berries softly accenting the cold rush you feel when inhaling this e-liquid. I personally found that these proportions worked really well.

DOCTOR FOSTER:

Juicy Lemon

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

An immediate, electrified zap of lemon is unmistakable when first vaping this e-liquid. I felt this e-liquid seemed to incorporate not just one variant of a lemon flavour, but several. I picked up on a sharp and sour lemon, a fizzy sherbety lemon and also a fresh lemonadeall of which were stunning. Simple lemon flavours are nice enough, but it’s the complexity that gives this e-liquid an edge over other lemon-based flavours. To me, I loved the fact that this is both a complex AND a simple flavour. The lemon notes were on point and the lack of other flavours gave the lemon a chance to flourish. It was presented as sweet, intricate, a little sour and very well-rounded.

DOCTOR FOSTER: Mixed Berries

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

A personal ‘go to’ of mine, berry flavours offer vapers a fruity, mouth-watering sensation - and this e-liquid is no exception. It brings together a smorgasbord of ripe and juicy berries, including sweet raspberries, fresh strawberries and sour blueberries. The mix of delectable berries gives vapers a lip-smacking experience that can really liven up your taste buds. Berry notes dominate the overall flavour incredibly, but there is a touch of cooling menthol that brings this e-liquid to life. The menthol is very delicate and will not overwhelm vapers who usually steer clear of cold flavours. I thoroughly appreciated the intense and unequivocal juiciness that the berry tones offered and the low-key menthol that gave this e-liquid a bit of a pop.

DOCTOR FOSTER: Reganberry

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Arguably one of the most unique collection of flavours I have tried so far, Reganberry was a real treat. This e-liquid manages to encapsulate a range of different elements, including fruits, sweets and just a pinch of menthol. For me, the initial and most obvious flavour was a light and sharp cherry, accompanied with a blend of mixed berries. Smooth and subtle menthol notes closely follow to complement the fruity elements in a way that was understated yet delightful. The pièce de résistance, however, was the incredibly rich and decadent marzipan flavour I got when exhaling. The weird and wonderful addition to an already pleasant flavour, I felt that the marzipan boosted this e-liquid to a whole new level.

DOCTOR FOSTER: Natural Mint

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

One for the icy fans out there, Natural Mint is the ultimate menthol flavour. Reinvigorating and sharp peppermint takes centre stage, with a bold and powerful quality to it that strongly resembles the taste of peppermint chewing gum with very little sweetness to it. If that wasn’t cold enough for you, the flavour is compounded with a potent and bracing menthol that will certainly knock your socks off. Although I’m not usually much of a fan when it comes to purely mint or menthol flavours, I could see that many would love this e-liquid for its cold and refreshing features. If you like menthol-based flavours, you’re going to want to try this gem.

DOCTOR FOSTER: Tropical Mango

VG/PG RATIO: 70/30

Possibly my favourite in this line of e-liquids, I was surprised at how well I got on with it. Mango flavours can be hit or miss, but this one has hit it right out of the park. The mango smells hyper-realistic and you can pick out the familiar, juicy notes that you would with an actual mango. Taste-wise the mango is marginally less life-like, but still conveys a good level of flavour. It oozes a powerful, fruity punch on every inhale and you can really appreciate the juicy, ripe and tropical nature of the mango on exhaling. I couldn’t pick up on any hints of menthol in this e-liquid, which for me was welcomed. I found that the simplicity of this e-liquid is what makes it such a great option for vapers. Overall, a straightforward, no messing about, delicious flavour for all vapers to enjoy.