As the UK government moves toward its ambitious goal of a smoke-free Britain by 2030, a new challenge looms on the horizon: a proposed ban on single-use vapes by 2025. While this legislation aims to reduce the environmental and health impacts of vaping, a recent study of 1,000 vapers reveals that it may have unintended consequences. According to the study, 85% of vapers are former cigarette smokers, and more than half (52%) fear they may revert to smoking if the ban takes effect. 

A Fear of Regression 

The proposed ban has stirred anxiety among many vapers, with 52% expressing concerns that they might return to smoking traditional cigarettes once disposable vapes are no longer available. This worry is compounded by the fact that many vapers view their current habit as a successful alternative to smoking. With the convenience and accessibility of single-use vapes set to disappear, a significant portion of users feels their options are limited, leading some to explore less favorable alternatives. 

Since the announcement of the ban, 26% of vapers have already attempted to quit vaping. However, not all have turned to healthier substitutes. Of those trying to quit, 36% have returned to cigarettes, while others have turned to alternatives like nicotine pouches (26%) and gum (25%). Worryingly, a third of the survey’s respondents believe their nicotine intake will actually increase as a result of the impending legislation, showing that the ban may inadvertently fuel a rise in smoking or other nicotine consumption. 

Alternatives to Vaping: What’s on the Horizon? 

Though the looming ban on single-use vapes is causing unease, there are regulated alternatives available, such as nicotine pouches and gum. Steve McGeough, a spokesperson for nicotine pouch brand Ubbs, emphasized the importance of exploring these options, stating, “While disposable vapes might be on the way out, there are plenty of safe and regulated alternatives to try now or when the ban comes into play.” Nicotine pouches, in particular, have gained popularity as a cleaner, discreet, and smoke-free alternative to traditional cigarettes and vapes. In fact, McGeough pointed to Sweden’s success in becoming nearly smoke-free, largely due to the increased use of nicotine pouches. 

Despite this, nearly three-quarters of the surveyed vapers have not yet tried any alternatives to vaping. Among those willing to switch, 28% would consider returning to cigarettes, 21% are open to trying nicotine gum, and 25% would explore nicotine pouches. However, many vapers still prioritize flavor and convenience over safety, with 52% saying they would seek out unregulated vaping products that haven’t undergone official safety checks. 

The Risks of Unregulated Products 

One of the most concerning findings from the study is the potential rise in the use of unregulated vapes. While a third of respondents are fully aware of the risks associated with using these products, 39% admitted they would likely purchase e-cigarettes from unregulated sources once the ban is in place. This shift poses significant safety concerns, as unregulated products could expose users to unknown health risks. 

Markus Lindbald, a spokesperson for Haypp, echoed these concerns: “It’s worrying that vapers may turn to unregulated sources, which haven’t undergone proper safety checks. But it’s also promising to see how many are considering alternatives like nicotine pouches instead of turning back to smoking.” Lindbald’s optimism is rooted in the potential for nicotine pouches and other reduced-risk products to play a key role in achieving the UK’s smoke-free goals. 

A Path Forward: Reduced-Risk Alternatives 

As the UK inches closer to 2025, the government’s commitment to creating a smoke-free nation could be bolstered by encouraging the use of alternatives like nicotine pouches, which have already proven successful in countries like Sweden. With proper regulation and education, vapers concerned about the proposed ban can find better ways to manage their nicotine intake without resorting to cigarettes or unregulated products.