There are lots of products to be found in the UK that it may be tough to understand if a product is authentic or not. Fake vapes can be very similar to real vapes, but may not comply with UK standards for safety and legal use.
This is a simple guide on key factors to review before purchasing a vape.
What Is a Fake Vape?
Fake vape is a fake device that appears to be the real thing from a well-known brand. It may copy the original packaging, logo, flavour names and product design.
A product may be true, but not legal under UK laws. Thus, it is equally crucial to verify the product specifications and its origin as it is to verify brand.
1. Check the Packaging
Start by carefully inspecting the box and labels. Look for:
- Spelling or grammatical errors
- Poor-quality printing
- Incorrect logos or fonts
- Missing manufacturer details
- Missing nicotine warnings
Avoid foods that are packaged in a way that is not typical or has been damaged by the packaging.
Genuine products are usually packaged with consistency and clarity, but no more than this.
2. Check the Nicotine Strength
The maximum strength of nicotine in vaping products in the UK is 20mg/ml (2%).
Take care with products with strengths like 30mg, 40mg or 50mg. It could be for another market or not meet UK requirements.
3. Check the Pod or Tank Capacity
The rules in the UK also specify that e-cigarette tanks and cartridges cannot contain more than 2ml of product and nicotine refill bottles can have a maximum capacity of 10ml.
When a product seems to have a very high concentration of e-liquid in one pod or disposable style device, be sure to inspect the specifications before purchasing.
4. Check the MHRA Listing
The MHRA issues updates on products in the UK market containing Vaping Nicotine that have been notified.
Look for the brand and product name exactly and check the details against the package. If the information is not matching or if you cannot find the product, enquire further before buying it.
5. Verify the Authenticity Code
Some vape brands mark a authenticity or verification code on their packaging. If there is a manufacturer's website, use that to enter the code.
Be cautious if the code:
- Does not work
- Shows incorrect product information
- Leads to an unfamiliar website
- Appears to have already been used repeatedly
Be aware that verification codes can be duplicated by counterfeiters, so use this in addition to other indicators.
6. Be Careful With Very Cheap Vapes
If the price is too low, it may be an indication of problems. Products which are very cheap may be fake, non-compliant, or be not from an authorised source.
Always compare prices with established UK retailers before making a purchase.
7. Check the Seller
The location where you purchase your vape is important. Look for a trusted UK merchant with detailed product descriptions and adheres to UK age restrictions.
Avoid buying from unknown sellers, informal social media accounts or sellers who cannot explain where their products come from.
8. Inspect the Device
Lastly, look at the vape itself. The product may be discontinued if it is made from a poor quality material, if any parts are loose, if the liquid leaks, if the product has an unusual smell, if there are charging issues or if the product is too hot.
Not all vape products are fake, but multiple unusual features should not be ignored.
What to Do If You Suspect a Fake Vape
Do not use a vape if you think it is illegal or fake. Retain the packaging and product so you can read the information or contact the retailer.
The product can also be compared with the information published by the MHRA and any concerns regarding potentially illegal products can be reported to the appropriate authorities.
Final Thoughts
Identifying fake vapes in the UK is fairly easy. Check the packaging, nicotine strength, pod capacity, authenticity code and MHRA information before buying.
Most importantly, shop at a quality retailer. If the product appears suspicious, has unusual specifications, or cannot be verified, then it is best to avoid the product.
