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In recent weeks, the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has shed light on a significant issue within the UK vaping regulatory framework. The withdrawal of over-filled vape products from UK stores has raised concerns about a "glaring failure" in the system. The UKVIA emphasizes the need for more rigorous testing and compliance measures to ensure the reputation and safety of the entire vaping industry. This article will explore the current situation, the implications of non-compliance, and the calls for improved regulations.

1. The Issue at Hand: Over-Filled Vape Products

Over the past month, two well-known brands, Elf Bar and Lost Mary, have faced product recalls and removal from UK stores. The reason behind these actions is that their tank capacities exceed the legal limit set for the UK market. This discovery prompted a joint statement from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), revealing the extent of the problem.

2. The Glaring Failure in the UK Vaping Regulatory Framework

The UKVIA's director general, John Dunne, has expressed his concerns regarding the approval process for vape products. He emphasizes that approving vape products without proper testing for compliance, either before or after approval, is an approach that simply doesn't work. Mistakes can occur, but it is crucial to minimize these errors to protect the industry's reputation.

Dunne calls for an active program of testing incorporated into the MHRA approvals process. Additionally, random spot checks should be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance. The goal is not only to ensure that products are fully compliant when they enter the market but also to prevent standards from deteriorating over time.

3. Swift and Decisive Action for Compliance

To maintain public confidence and minimize confusion, non-compliance must be taken seriously throughout the supply chain. The relevant authorities need to take swift and decisive action whenever a failure to comply with the law is uncovered. This ensures that mistakes are rectified promptly, and manufacturers, distributors, and retailers are aware of the necessary actions to be taken.

Dunne suggests that the MHRA should consider suspending ECID (European Community Identification) numbers from products found to be non-compliant. This step would serve as a strong deterrent until the issue is resolved. Furthermore, the UKVIA highlights the need for one universal standard for compliance testing, particularly concerning e-liquid volumes. Independent testing has revealed conflicting results depending on the type of tests conducted, raising concerns about inconsistency and reliability.

Conclusion

The withdrawal of over-filled vape products from UK stores has exposed a significant failure within the UK vaping regulatory framework. The UKVIA stresses the importance of rigorous testing, compliance measures, and swift action to address non-compliance. To protect the industry's reputation and maintain public confidence, it is crucial for authorities to implement an active testing program and maintain consistent standards.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What led to the withdrawal of over-filled vape products from UK stores? The withdrawal was prompted by the discovery that certain vape products, such as Elf Bar and Lost Mary brands, had tank capacities exceeding the legal limit for the UK market.

Q2: What is the UKVIA's stance on the issue? The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) views the withdrawal of over-filled vape products as a glaring failure in the UK vaping regulatory framework. They advocate for more robust compliance testing and measures to protect the industry's reputation.

Q3: What actions are being proposed to rectify the issue? The UKVIA calls for an active testing program incorporated into the MHRA approvals process, along with random spot checks to ensure ongoing compliance. Swift and decisive action is also urged to address any failure to comply with the law.

Q4: How can non-compliance be minimized throughout the supply chain? To minimize confusion and maintain public confidence, non-compliance must be taken seriously at every stage of the supply chain. This involves swift action by authorities and clear instructions for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

Q5: What other concerns has the UKVIA highlighted? The UKVIA has emphasized the need for one universal standard for compliance testing, particularly regarding e-liquid volumes. Independent testing has shown conflicting results, indicating a lack of consistency in testing methods.