Fingerprinting the volatile profile of traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes: a comparative study.

Introduction:
This text provides a comprehensive evaluation of the long-term effects and safety of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) compared to traditional tobacco. It employs headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (hS-SPME/GC –MS) to establish and compare the volatile fingerprints of traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes.

Key Points:

* The analysis of traditional tobacco included two popular brands and different parts of the cigarette (solid tobacco, cigarette smoke, cigarette paper, and filter).
* E-cigarettes were analyzed using nine e-liquids and their corresponding vapors.
* a total of 80 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified in traditional tobacco, while 92 VOCs were identified in e-cigarettes.
* The volatile profile of traditional tobacco showed significant differences between the two brands, with the paper used in a's cigarettes appearing more harmful than the one used in B, and the filter used in B appearing more toxic.
* The analysis of e-cigarettes revealed that no VOCs with potentially toxic or harmful effects were identified in the vapor of Do It Yourself (DIY) liquids and Premium samples.
* The study suggests that e-cigarettes analyzed seemed to constitute a valid and less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco for smokers, second-hand smokers, and the environment.

Main Message:
The text highlights the potential of e-cigarettes as a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco for smokers, second-hand smokers, and the environment. however, it is crucial to ensure the use of certified e-liquid mixtures and consider the variations in VOCs released during smoking or vaping, which can have short- and long-term health effects. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects and safety of e-cigarettes, as well as their impact on smoking cessation and the potential for serving as a gateway to traditional cigarettes.

Berenguer C, Pereira JaM, Camara JS. Fingerprinting the volatile profile of traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes: a comparative study. Microchem J. 2021;166:106196. doi:10.1016/j.microc.2021.106196