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).