FDA Regulations: Why Disposable E-Cigs are the New Hot Device

If you’re wondering where the new disposable e-cig trend came from and why they’re so hot right now, you can thank a recent FDA policy decision. It bans cartridge-style vape devices, such as the Juul pod device. To meet customer’s demand for small, pocket-friendly vapes that deliver full flavor and nicotine without the more complicated nature of other device styles, manufacturers are rushing to release single-use vapes that provide an experience familiar to Juul users. This latest trend is not only driving manufacturer decisions but those of former Juul users as they are suddenly confronted with a wide range of new options targeted directly at them.

Disposable E-Cigs

The idea of a disposable vape isn’t new, nor are they new to the market. Many vapers ordered these pre-filled, pre-charged devices as an emergency backup vape for their glove box, office drawer, or gym bag in case they ran out of juice or power at an inopportune time. These types of devices, however, were often seen as no more than a reserve option when compared to their normal vape, be it a box mod or pod system.

Under the new regulatory policy, disposable e-cig devices are suddenly an important part of the vape family, taking the place of the cartridge systems that are now banned except for the authorized flavors of menthol and tobacco. This is a change Juul had been moving toward already amid mounting troubles related to accusations that their marketing targeted minors, which had already forced some users to seek out compatible pods from other manufacturers. Some of these same manufacturers are seizing their opportunity by shifting production from pods to disposable e-cigs that have the flavors and name recognition their customers already love.

The New FDA Enforcement Policy

In order to address public concerns over youth vaping, the FDA was tasked with examining their regulatory policies. At the same time, proponents of vaping demanded that it be available for use by responsible adults who either wanted to use it as a pathway to quitting smoking or just enjoyed vaping. As a result, the FDA announced 3 enforcement priorities that would go into effect February 1st, 2020. First, cartridge vaping devices, such as the Juul pod device, would no longer be allowed for sale except with tobacco and menthol flavors. Second, The only other vape products allowed would be those that are not marketed to minors, are unlikely to promote vaping among minors, and that the manufacturer has taken suitable steps to make sure they will not end up in the possession of minors.

The effective ban on cartridge vaping of flavors is what’s driving the explosion of disposable e-cig popularity. Customers still want the ease and convenience of a pre-filled vape, and single-use models fill the vacuum left by the ban. These small devices require no charging, no filling, and no upkeep. Just open the package, take it out, and vape.

The remainder of the new policy, however, bears watching closely. There is little guidance as to the standards which will be used to determine if a manufacturer of disposable e-cigs is promoting, marketing, or taking insufficient care to ensure their products are not being sold to minors. As a matter of practicality, marketing, promotion, and determining the appropriateness of sale are out of the hands of the manufacturer at the local level and rest solely with the retailer. In addition, accusations against Juul’s marketing have been made based solely on the flavors offered, ignoring that many adults like fruity, fun, and sweet flavors as well.

Also troubling, when announcing the new policy, the FDA took pains to state that since no vapes on the market were FDA approved, all vapes are being marketed illegally and the FDA is empowered to prohibit or limit their sale at its discretion. This should be a cause for worry for any manufacturer, retailer, or customer who wants to ensure responsible adult access to vapes and vaping supplies. It is a broad statement that allows almost unfettered regulatory power and leaves the market in a state of uncertainty.

What You Can Do In Light Of The New Guidelines

Start by transitioning your vaping to a disposable e-cig. This not only makes sure you have access to a vape you love but it also helps support the industry as it shifts to accommodate FDA policy. Next, make sure that you and those around you are vaping responsibly. Do your best to be a good vaping citizen and discourage vaping by minors, as the FDA and state regulators have shown they are more than willing to use any justification to restrict your rights. Finally, contact the legislators in your area, make them aware you are a legal and responsible vape enthusiast who wants access to the products you love.

Get The Vape Gear You Need

We carry some of the hottest disposable e-cig devices in the flavors you love. Order before 2PM CST, and your order will ship the same business day, with free shipping on orders over $29.99. Order your compliant vaping devices from Elevated Vaping today.