Classification, labelling and packaging of the most popular e-cigarette refill liquids across 9 European countries

Abstract

Background Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) of the e-cigarette refill liquids adopts the UN Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) into the EU. Regarding article 17 where a substance and mixture classified as hazardous must bear a label and article 35, where substances and mixtures must acquire packaging requirements, our study aimed to evaluate the level of compliance of these products within the European market. Methods Through cross referencing of two data sources, we identified examples of the most popular websites and their marketed brands, as also the most popular point of sale e-cigarettes, in nine European Member States (Greece, France, Poland, Germany, Holland, the United Kingdom, Spain, Romania and Hungary). An optical evaluation from two independent researchers followed for all the e-liquids (n=122). Evaluation was conducted on the vial, on the external package and leaflet if included. Results Results showed that almost all products evaluated were in near compliance with the two articles based on CLP regulations. The 89.3% (109) of the samples contained hazard pictograms while 80.3% (98) contained hazard statements. Additionally, the use of child-resistant fastening (CRF) systems and tactile warnings of danger (TWD) were frequently found on the vials and external packages (90.2% vs. 80.3%, respectively). Conclusions This is the first study to evaluate the labelling/packaging practices and the technical design/safety features of e-cigarettes in 9 EU MS before the implementation of Tobacco Products Directive. Funding: This work was supported by a grant from the European Commission (Horizon2020 HCO-6-2015; EUREST-PLUS: 681109).

Keywords

• WCTOH