Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the chemical components in refill solutions for electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) available in the Chinese market. The study aims to develop methods for assessing the levels of various chemical groups and to identify the levels of these groups in 55 refill solutions from 17 brands.
Key Points:
* The study developed and validated methods for assessing the levels of eight groups of compounds in e-cigarette refill solutions.
* The eight chemical groups include mono/polyhydric alcohols, tobacco alkaloids, tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), solanesol, phenolic compounds, carbonyl compounds, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
* The study found that propylene glycol and glycerol were the major ingredients of most refill solutions, while the nicotine content was generally not labeled clearly or accurately.
* Selected groups of compounds, including TSNAs, solanesol, VOCs, PAHs, phenolic compounds, and carbonyl compounds, were detected with varying levels and detection frequencies.
* The exposure and health effects on consumers of these impurities, toxicants, or carcinogens should be further evaluated.
Main Message:
The study highlights the need for accurate labeling of e-cigarette refill solutions, particularly regarding nicotine content. The study also identifies the presence of various chemical groups, including impurities, toxicants, and carcinogens, in e-cigarette refill solutions. Further evaluation is required to assess the exposure and health effects on consumers of these chemicals. The study emphasizes the importance of regulatory oversight and monitoring of e-cigarette products to ensure consumer safety.
Citation
Han, Shulei, Huan Chen, Xiaotao Zhang, Tong Liu, and Ya’ning Fu. “Levels of Selected Groups of Compounds in Refill Solutions for Electronic Cigarettes.” Nicotine & Tobacco Research 18, no. 5 (May 2016): 708–14. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntv189.
