Study: Not Always Safe to Trust Nicotine Labeling in North Dakota

The most recent study for tobacco control advocates suggests purchasing e-cigarette liquid could be a risky endeavor as nicotine levels are not always what they seem on product labels.

According to the North Dakota Center for Tobacco Prevention and Control Policy, the study found that just over half of tested labels were inaccurately labeling e-cigarette liquid contents. In some products, the actual nicotine levels were 172 percent higher than what was depicted on the label.

You read that right the first time, not 72 percent, but "172 percent higher." By comparison, that's about the same percentage of points that LeBron James and Kyrie Irving had in the NBA Finals when compared to the rest of their teammates on the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The study, which was published in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing, was done after there were reports of children showing up at healthcare facilities with nicotine toxicity from e-cigarette liquids, which are often packaged to appeal to a younger demographic.

Last month, the Food and Drug Administration issued new regulations for e-cigarettes and any product "made or derived from tobacco that is intended for human consumption."

While already banned in North Dakota, the FDA is ready to ban the sale of e-cigarette and tobacco to those up to the age of 18, beginning in August. The FDA will also prohibit free samples, as well as false or misleading advertising and regulate adulterated products.

In 2018, the FDA will require warning labels for e-cigarette products and will also begin requiring pre-market reviews of tobacco products, which is said to be extensively taxing on the vaping industry and its supporters.

Source: Bismark Tribune