VAPES sold in Queensland contain heavy metals which are "toxic to reproduction" and may "cause neurological anomalies," tests have found.
The state government's Health and Environment Committee tested 17 e-liquid samples from vapes available on the market, as reported in general media.
"Lab tests were performed for the presence of nicotine plus other substances including carbonyl compounds, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides and heavy metals," a Queensland government statement said.
All samples contained nicotine, formaldehyde (a group 1 human carcinogen), acetaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, arsenic and zinc.
Other toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, nickel, chromium, antimony, aluminium, iron, nickel, barium, manganese, copper, strontium and vanadium were found in some samples.
Some of those heavy metals are known to be "carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic to reproduction and development and cause neurological anomalies".
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 29 May 23
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 29 May 23