A recent report has shown that vapes sold in Queensland contain heavy metals that are toxic to reproduction and may cause neurological issues.

The Health and Environment Committee of the state government tested 17 e-liquid samples from vapes available on the market. Lab tests were carried out for the presence of nicotine, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, carbonyl compounds, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, and heavy metals.

All the samples that were tested contained nicotine, formaldehyde (a group 1 human carcinogen), acetaldehyde, arsenic, zinc, and volatile organic compounds. Some samples contained toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, nickel, chromium, antimony, aluminium, iron, nickel, barium, manganese, copper, strontium, and vanadium. Some of these heavy metals are known to be carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic to reproduction and development, and cause neurological anomalies.

The report revealed that vapes containing heavy metals were dangerous and could not be deemed as safe alternatives to smoking. It emphasized that vaping must not be viewed as a harmless activity.

It is important to note that it is illegal to buy vapes containing nicotine in Australia under federal law. Only vapes prescribed by healthcare professionals are legal.

Last week, the Queensland government passed new laws against smoking and vaping, including strict regulations on the sale of illegal tobacco products, and outlawed recreational vaping and the importation of non-pharmaceutical vapes. The law also imposed severe restrictions on the flavors and packaging of the products.

The report highlights the dangers of vaping and is an important reminder to all users to exercise caution when using these products.

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