Vape Juice Brands to Avoid: Harmful Ingredients & Worst Flavours

Vaping is meant to be a smoother, more enjoyable alternative to smoking — but not all vape juices are created equal. Some brands and flavours can leave you feeling more regretful than refreshed. Whether it’s questionable ingredients or dubious flavour choices, here’s what you need to know to make smarter decisions.

Propylene Glycol (PG)

Propylene glycol (PG) is a common ingredient in vape juice, known for its ability to produce a smooth throat hit. It is also used to create artificial smoke in theatrical productions and firefighter training by heating or agitating it to generate mist. Additionally, PG is categorised as a "generally recognised as safe" (GRAS) food additive, which means it is approved for use in food products and e-liquids.

Main Ingredients in Vape Juice

Vape juice, also known as e-liquid, typically contains a combination of four main ingredients: Propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), natural food-grade flavours, and nicotine (optional). These ingredients are blended together to create the desired flavour and consistency of the vape juice.

• Propylene glycol (PG): This petroleum-based fluid is a staple in vape juices, prized for its ability to carry flavour and create a smooth vaping experience. While generally safe, some users may experience mild throat irritation or dryness, especially at higher concentrations.
• Vegetable glycerin (VG): VG is a non-toxic, vegetable-based liquid that adds thickness and smoothness to the vapour. It’s often used in combination with PG to strike a balance between flavour and vapour production. VG is also a common ingredient in food products and personal care items.
• Natural food-grade flavours: These flavours are what give vape juices their unique tastes and aromas, ranging from sweet and fruity to savoury and spicy. Using natural food-grade flavours ensures that the vape juice is safe for inhalation.
• Nicotine: This optional ingredient is included in vape juices to help smokers transition away from traditional cigarettes. While nicotine is highly addictive, it’s not as harmful as the myriad of toxic chemicals found in tobacco smoke. For those looking to reduce their nicotine intake, there are also nicotine-free options available.

Brands You Might Want to Rethink

When it comes to vape juices, not all brands are looking out for you. Although most reputable companies stick to safe practices, some have been known to include questionable ingredients that raise concerns. Thanks to the UK’s stringent regulations, most products are compliant and safe when purchased from trustworthy sellers. However, grey-market imports or unverified international brands could be a gamble. Your best bet? Stick with established names that prioritise transparency and safety.

Sneaky Toxic Chemicals to Watch For

Vape juices often contain a mix of chemicals, some of which may lead to discomfort or irritation if consumed frequently. Diacetyl, known for its buttery flavour, was once a common additive in microwave popcorn but is now banned in the UK due to its association with respiratory irritation. However, its substitutes, acetyl propionyl and acetoin, aren’t entirely off the hook either, as they pose similar concerns.

Another key ingredient is propylene glycol (PG), a widely used base for vape liquids. While generally safe, PG can sometimes cause throat dryness or irritation, especially for those with sensitivities.

Flavours That May Make You Cringe

Flavours are what make vaping fun, but not all vape juice tastes are created equal — or even pleasant. Cinnamon-flavoured vape juices might sound appealing, but their main ingredient, cinnamaldehyde, is known to irritate lung tissue. Buttery or creamy options often get their appeal from compounds like diacetyl or its substitutes, which can raise health concerns over prolonged use.

Overly sweet fruit or candy flavours, while tempting, may rely heavily on chemical additives that aren’t ideal for regular inhalation. Some of the worst vape flavours include blue cheese, which is especially offensive, and warm milk, which is also a less desirable flavour.

When you use a refillable vape pod kit, you're in control of the flavours you consume, so be mindful, and have fun.

Diacetyl in the UK

Diacetyl, once a common additive for buttery flavours, is no longer allowed in UK e-liquids under current regulations. While this is a relief for vapers, caution is still necessary when purchasing products from less-regulated markets, where standards might not be as strict. Imported or unverified e-liquids could still contain diacetyl, so always check the source of your vape juice to ensure it complies with UK safety guidelines.

What Else is Hiding in Your Vape?

In addition to nicotine, which is the key player in most e-liquids, some vape juices can contain trace compounds formed during the heating process, such as formaldehyde and acrolein. These chemicals, while concerning, are largely preventable by using your device correctly and avoiding excessive heat settings.

Flavouring chemicals, the source of all those delicious and unique vape flavours, can also contribute to irritation if inhaled in excess.

When comparing the health risks, smoking cigarettes poses greater dangers than vaping, as traditional cigarettes involve inhaling a multitude of harmful substances beyond nicotine.

Tips for Choosing Safe Vape Juice

Choosing a safe vape juice can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available in the market. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Check the ingredients: Look for vape juices that use natural food-grade flavours and avoid those with artificial flavorings or sweeteners. Natural ingredients are generally safer and provide a more authentic taste.
2. Opt for high-quality ingredients: Choose vape juices that use pharmaceutical-grade nicotine and high-quality propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin.
3. Avoid toxic chemicals: Steer clear of vape juices that contain toxic chemicals like diacetyl, diketones, and vitamin E acetate. These substances can pose serious health risks when inhaled.
4. Check the nicotine level: If you’re a smoker, choose a vape juice with a nicotine level that matches your needs. If you’re a non-smoker, opt for a nicotine-free vape juice.
5. Read reviews and do research: This can help you avoid low-quality or potentially harmful products.
6. Check for certifications: Look for certifications like ISO 9001 or GMP, which ensure that the manufacturer follows strict quality control standards. These certifications are a good indicator of a reputable and safe product.
7. Avoid cheap vape juices: Cheap vape juices may contain low-quality ingredients or toxic chemicals. Investing in a higher-quality product can provide a safer and more satisfying vaping experience.

By following these tips, you can choose a safe and enjoyable vape juice that meets your needs and preferences. Remember to always prioritize your health and safety when vaping.

So, What’s the Bottom Line?

Vaping is all about making choices that work for you, and understanding what’s in your vape juice is a big part of that. Stick to reputable brands, choose flavours carefully, and stay informed about the ingredients in your liquid.

Above all, remember that vaping is a tool for harm reduction, designed to offer a safer alternative to smoking when used responsibly. Curious to learn more about safe vaping and quality e-liquids?