20 mg of nicotine per milliliter – that's the maximum amount allowed in e-liquid in Europe. That sounds like Consumer protection. However, a closer look reveals that this boundary protects less people than rather... The classic cigarette. This article shows why the regulation is out of touch with reality and how a what a fair, scientifically sound alternative could look like.
The Great Illusion
A cigarette delivers a precise, fast dose of nicotine with each puff – that's exactly what smokers love. and smokers are used to it. E-cigarettes are artificially slowed down by the 20 mg limit : In order to To achieve a comparable effect, users need to puff more frequently and consume more liquid – However, they often remain underserved .
The result: frustration, relapses, and the premature termination of the switching attempt.
Device diversity ignored – risk increased
The regulation does not differentiate between compact pod systems and high-performance sub-ohm devices . This is problematic:
- Small devices: At 20 mg/ml, the delivery per puff is so low that heavy smokers can hardly meet their needs.
- Large devices: With the same liquid strength, the output per puff can be significantly higher – beginners risk overdosing.
Result: A law that neither protects nor regulates , but rather creates contradictory effects – and ultimately endangers those who which one wants to protect.
Closed systems: The chance for a safe transition
Closed systems (pre-filled pods) can more precisely control the amount of nicotine, power, and delivery per puff. A higher, clearly defined dose in such systems would make it easier for heavy smokers to switch – without thousands of trains a day.
Closed systems could thus achieve what regulation actually aims to do: a An efficient, controlled alternative to cigarettes with transparent dosage guidance.
Double standards regarding nicotine
While e-liquids are strictly limited to 20 mg/ml, snus and all-white pouches (e.g., VELO, ZYN) are permitted to contain more. deliver significantly higher amounts of nicotine – a single pouch can contain several times the nicotine dose of a deliver a typical e-cigarette draw sequence.
Where does this leave unified youth and consumer protection ? The current logic seems more like a shield. for cigarettes – and like a brake on innovation.
View across the Atlantic
In the US, doses of up to 50 mg/ml are permitted. Studies and market experience show: The majority don't necessarily utilize their greatest strengths – but for heavy smokers, they can be the decisive lever. They need to be able to make the leap. Europe is taking this option away from these people – and thus the chance of many others. towards a smoke-free everyday life .
Our demand: Measure nicotine per puff
Fair regulation must be based on the actual tax burden – not on an abstract one. Concentration value in the tank. We demand "nicotine per puff" as the standard metric for closed systems (measurable with a 1-second pull).
This creates:
- Transparency for consumers
- Trust in politics and enforcement
- Safety for beginners
- Comparability between devices
- Innovation without unnecessary health risks
- Child protection (closed systems, no leaking liquid)
- Improved chances of success when switching thanks to optimized, consistent dosage
Time for a change of course
The 20 mg limit was a hasty decision. It ensured the survival of cigarettes – at the expense of… The health of many people is at stake. It is time to correct this misguided decision and adjust the regulation accordingly. to establish a scientifically sound basis . Only then can the e-cigarette reach its full potential – as what it should be: an effective path to a smoke-free future .
Note: This article reflects the professional opinion of vapestubä.ch (Switzerland). Legal requirements These terms and conditions may change; please always refer to the current regulations.
