California Trying to Root Out Illegal Vape Providers

The vape industry is only getting bigger, yet most of the products within it, are illegal. In a new move, California just filed suit against nine vape companies; seemingly in an effort to root out illegal providers. Will this work?

This article is the express opinion of the writer in relation to California’s new lawsuit.

California vs nine vape companies

On Friday, September 8th, California, via Attorney General Rob Bonta, filed a suit against nine different companies that Bonta says sell illegal vape products. All the products are inhalable, come from online sales platforms, and are unregulated. California does allow recreational cannabis, as per ballot measure Proposition 64 in 2016; and the state has a medical legalization since Proposition 215, in 1996.

Bonta said the nine companies targeted by the lawsuit, also violate Proposition 65; because of failure to include certain warnings on the products. This relates to delta-9, and a terpene called beta-Myrcene; both natural compounds of the cannabis plant; neither of which was ever definitively tied to reproductive harm, or developmental delays, the topics of the warnings. The suit also alleges that the companies are involved in unfair business practices.

Then Bonta went on to make a statement, that perhaps explains this California vape situation better; so long as you can read between the lines. He said, “I want to be clear: The sales of industrial hemp products that do not comply with California law, and the illegal sale of inhalable hemp in California will not be tolerated.

The dangers of these products must be communicated for sale to the public, and the sale of all industrial hemp inhalable products must cease altogether. The California Department of Justice will continue to protect the legitimate businesses who are operating responsibly in this space. There is no room for illegal inhalable hemp products in our state.” 

What’s really going on here?

California filed suit against nine vape companies

So, California will continue to protect its legitimate businesses, and try to root out as many illegal vape providers as possible. This suit isn’t about finding a few companies that are deviating a bit; its about trying to get rid of black market retailers. The real issue Bonta has is not fear for your health; regardless of all those warnings he wants to make sure you see. It’s fear for tax revenue, and control of the market. Black market = no government revenue.

One mistake in this, is using the concept of ‘inhalable.’ Isn’t all flower inhalable? Obviously he doesn’t mean to get rid of the flower market, right? The guy is totally cool if you want to light hemp on fire and breathe it in, which is inhalation as well. No, he’s not trying to get rid of that. He’s only talking about vaporizers, and only ones sold outside of regulation. It’s an attack on the vape market, which is known to be a hugely illicit market. So big, that the government has tried to stop it in several ways, already.

A couple years ago the federal government tried to institute a vape mail ban; which was so unpopular it fizzled out. It also greatly targeted the company Juul, even though there isn’t a death or injury suit related. How? With the line that Juul created a vape epidemic by marketing to children; a nonsensical argument on many levels. Like, 1) The idea that vapes are what introduce knowledge of tobacco to kids, is insanely short-sighted; I mean, consider Hollywood. 2) No one is solely targeting the group least likely to have their own money for products. And 3) Who cares if it keeps kids from SMOKING??

The company, and similar campaigns, are used to induce fear of kids vaping. Its not a relief that those who choose a tobacco product, are more likely to inhale vapor than smoke. Rather, a fear that this method of inhalation will somehow cause the undoing of society, despite it being an alternative to the actually death-casing smoking. It’s so beyond logic, that its scary. Nicotine gummies almost made it out last year, but the FDA squashed it; in fear your child might want one. Nevermind that they 100% eliminate the issue of inhalation.

Logic time? Last I checked, pretty much every beer can looks like a soda can. And those pink and blue opioid pills sure look like little candies. Do you think someone actively ODing will make sure the safety lock is utilized correctly? Every US government allows the sale of opioids, while concurrently collecting money from opioid settlements on behalf of their people. This is already a massive contradiction when it comes to our health and well being. But heaven forbid you switch to vaping from smoking, or swallow an edible without having read a warning about issues that were never confirmed as related.

Cigarette taxes

The UK instituted a program to get smokers to switch to vaping; starting with the likes of pregnant women. It’s still talking about all kinds of risks, but it has conceded enough to allow this to happen. What’s the stipulation? The vape has to come from the government, whether directly, or through an approved source. As in, its cool to vape, but only if its for sure a legal sale. This might look like the government being wary of its residents’ health; but if you read between the lines… its really about reining in a wildly big illicit vape industry.

Because of the fallout with big tobacco, nearly every country allows the sale of cigarettes, but puts exponentially high taxes on them. These are the same sin taxes applied to cannabis products. These taxes are high enough to often make government entities, the biggest benefactors of the cigarette industry.

Some examples? Mexico has a 70% tax rate as of 2020, per its government; in 2021 the tax rate averaged 80.4% across Europe per TaxFoundation; and the UK has had as high as 82.16% on cigarette products in 2015 according to WHO data. The US, for its part, brought in $12.9 billion in cigarette tax money in just 2019, according to taxpolicycenter.org.

California suit is likely related to inability of government to collect taxes on vape products
California suit is likely related to inability of government to collect taxes on vape products

Governments seem happy for people to continue smoking, as long as they pay the high cost. On the other hand, vaping created another tobacco option to standard cigarettes; and one not regulated, and therefore outside of government tax reach. Governments seem generally unhappy for their populations to take this option. Even though vaping has overall shown to be way healthier than smoking, (except in a few freak cases that deal with certain additives); we’re continually fed fear on vaping, even as it gives an alternative to smoking.

Size of illicit vape market

It’s one thing to talk about something, and another thing to measure it. So lets try to attach some numbers to all this. Remember, illicit markets don’t report to governments, so we have no official data on them, or what they bring in. Everything we have, is estimates from different governments or research organizations. And sometimes its just pieces put together, and they don’t always match. It often feels like we’re very specifically not told anything. Think of what California just did with the vape lawsuit; yet it didn’t mention this as a legal market vs illegal market issue.

According to Grand View Research, the global market for e-cigarettes and vapes in 2022, was valued at $22.45 billion; although what this includes exactly is hard to say. We do know it separates vape sales from cigarette sales. Whatever it exactly refers to, this market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 30% from 2023-2030. According to that company, it was worth about $6 billion in 2020, so its already grown greatly in the last few years.

In terms of the UK, a recent Convenience Store article, reports on a UK study. The study was run by Japanese Tobacco International (a tobacco product manufacturer, not a research agency). The group tested purchasing in the UK, and found that more than half of the 186 tested locations, sold illegal cigarette and vape products. Said Ian Howel, the company’s fiscal and regulatory affairs manager, “Unfortunately, the illegal sale of tobacco and now vapes seems to be everywhere and it’s very difficult to put the genie back in the bottle.”

This doesn’t estimate the size of the total illegal tobacco market or vape market in the country; but it indicates they’re huge. A March 2023 article from the Daily Mail, which quotes a Trading Standard (government agency) report, claims that up to 1/3 of vapes sold in the UK could be illicit.

This is in part due to calling anything that does not 100% meet regulation, as illicit. Even if its that something lacks a warning; or is slightly bigger than the regulated size; or was made legally, but sold illegally. According to Better Retailing, about 138 million disposable vapes are sold every year in the UK. If Trading Standard’s numbers are correct, it means up to 45 million are illegal products. And that could be a low estimate if over half of retailers are willing to sell illegal products.

US illicit vape market

In terms of the US, there are a million fear tactic articles about illicit vapes, but very little information released. I have two theories on this. 1) The government doesn’t actually want you to know how little control it has. If it confirms the black market is bigger than regulated markets; its saying it can’t control it. 2) The other aspect of hiding this information, is that if use numbers are very high; it means there are very few actual incidences of danger involved. By never giving numbers; this allows entities to drive fear by talking about possible danger, while never answering for the frequency/infrequency of this danger.

A June article in NBC sheds more light on the situation. According to the article, there are over 9,000 electronic nicotine devices sold in the US, which is triple what it was in 2020. Most are thought to be disposable vapes, originating from China. NBC claims these numbers come from The Associated Press. The article goes on to explain that regulators refuse as many as 99% of product applications for e-cigarette products; which means only a few of the over 9,000, are approved and regulated.

UK has large illicit tobacco market
UK has large illicit tobacco market

It could be a nearly 100% illegal market, as anything not approved by the FDA is illegal. As per the article, 40% of the e-cig market in 2022, was disposables. Disposables are all illegal, so at least 40% of the market is automatically illegal. Considering the lack of approvals, its still a majority black market, even outside of disposables. NBC then quotes analytical company IRI, which says the total retail value of the vape industry was $7 billion in 2022. IRI claims over 5,800 different vape products are sold, a 1500% increase from 2020. Sources are not entirely consistent; highlighting the lack of info on this topic.

However, all sources indicate a massive market, which is nearly all illicit. In fact, the US is so far behind, and so antiquated in its techniques, that it spent months of time demonizing the companies Elf Bar, Esco Bar and Breeze; even blocking their imports. Just like it did with Juul before. What did it find? Those companies only accounted for 14% of the disposables market, last year. As starting a brand is as easy as sending your information to a manufacturer, new companies can pop up overnight. Which makes US attacks like that, nearly useless.

While it obviously grapples with a problem that leaves it embarrassingly left out, the FDA makes it sound like its all going according to plan. Tobacco Director Brian King stated, “I don’t think there’s any panacea here. We follow a comprehensive approach and that involves addressing all entities across the supply chain, from manufacturers to importers to distributors to retailers.”

Conclusion

Weird, I guess its not a panacea to have a 40%+ (let’s be honest, probably over 75%) illicit vape market operating in the country. Of course, this whole thing centers around an epidemic with no real death toll, for which no one wants to give any hard numbers. If it really is everywhere, then its also proven safe enough (at least in the short term), just by the mass existence connected to so few problems. If its not everywhere, and the situation is controlled; why the argument? Either way, the California lawsuit will likely do nothing to change the illicit vape landscape; either in the state, or beyond.

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Announcing The High Times Cannabis Cup Massachusetts: People’s Choice Edition 2023

2023 marks the third year that our High Times Cannabis Cup: People’s Choice Edition has been held in Massachusetts. Soon, starting between Oct. 9-11, we’ll be conducting our behind-the-scenes preparations by collecting product submissions from across the state through our official intake partner for this year, Nova Farms. Stay tuned for a full article on the history of Nova Farms and how they are truly a Beast of the East. Those products will be organized and packed into kits by a dedicated team between Oct. 12-15, and by the following week those bags of goodies will be on their way to participating dispensaries (including Nova Farms and others still to be announced).

But one of the most important dates for our fellow fans and judges in Massachusetts is October 21, aka when kits officially go on sale! Starting on that same day until Dec. 24, participants will begin to try products and record their opinions and ratings for each one, including rankings from 1-10 on Aesthetics, Aroma, Taste, Effects and more, plus a comments section where Judges are responsible for providing 2-3 sentences about their thoughts and experience. Not only does each judge’s dedication determine our winners for 2023, but it also provides essential feedback to help all of the brands continue to improve their products as well.

With best wishes for both judges and participating brands celebrating various holiday traditions, High Times will calculate the results and announce the winners on Jan. 8, 2024! Not a bad way to ring in the new year.

For 2023 we are offering two new categories to our lineup, including infused pre-rolls. Our concentrates category has been split into two, featuring solvent-based concentrates and also non-solvent/rosin concentrates.

Entry Categories:

  1. Indica Flower (28 slots available, 2 entries max per company)
  2. Sativa Flower (28 slots available, 2 entries max per company)
  3. Hybrid Flower (28 slots available, 2 entries max per company)
  4. Pre-Rolls (28 slots available, 2 entries max per company)
  5. Infused Pre-Rolls (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  6. Solvent Concentrates (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  7. Non-Solvent/Rosin Concentrates (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  8. Rosin Vape Pens & Cartridges (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  9. NON-Rosin Vape Pens & Cartridges (10 slots available, 1 entries Max per company)
  10. Edibles: Sativa Gummies (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  11. Edibles: Indica Gummies (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  12. Edibles: Chocolate Non-Gummies (10 slots available, 1 entries max per Company)
  13. Edibles: Fruity Non-Gummies (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  14. Edibles: Beverages (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)
  15. Topicals + Tinctures + Capsules (10 slots available, 1 entries max per company)

For brands interested in participating this year, please review the following guidelines for submissions depending on the category, as well as pricing based on the number of submissions.

Entry Requirements:

  • Flower: (228) 1-gram, individually packaged and labeled Units. We will not accept any 3.5-gram units. 
  • Pre-Rolls: (228) individually packaged and labeled Units capped at a 2g flower each.
  • Infused Pre-Rolls: (228) individually packaged and labeled Units capped at a 2g flower & .5g Concentrate each.
  • Solvent Concentrates & Vape Pens: (228) .5-gram individually packaged and labeled Units. We will not accept any 1-gram units. Batteries required for Carts.
  • Non-Solvent Concentrates: (100) .5g units individually packaged and labeled units. We will not accept any 1-gram entries.
  • Edibles: (100) individually packaged and labeled Units with 50mg THC max per package. We will not accept anything above 50mg THC packages.
  • Topicals+Tinctures+Capsules: (100) samples. individually packaged for retail.
  • Capsules: 100mg THC max per sample / Tinctures: 500mg THC max per sample

Entry Pricing:

One entry: $250, Non-refundable

Two entries : $100 each entry, Non-refundable

Three Entries: $100 refundable deposit per entry. All Deposits returned after 100% of reserved entries are submitted

Entry fees waived for top-tier sponsorships

Our primary retail partner this time around is Nova Farms, which has dispensary locations in Attleboro, Framingham, and Dracut, Massachusetts, as well as Greenville, Maine, and Woodbury, New Jersey. Nova cultivates its own cannabis on a 90-acres farm in Sheffield, Massachusetts, making it one of the largest outdoor cannabis farms in New England. They don’t use any pesticides and use only the power of the sun to grow their plants. With sustainable farming practices and the goal of keeping a low carbon footprint, Nova Farms is dedicated to producing amazing cannabis without compromising quality.

We revealed a variety of winners for the High Times Cannabis Cup Massachusetts: People’s Choice Edition in 2022. In our multiple strains categories, Happy Valley and Rythm took home two trophies, in addition to wins from other cultivators such as NETA (our intake partner from last year), Bailey’s Buds, and Nature’s Heritage.

Last year  our edibles-related category winners also put the spotlight on a variety of delectable treats, from Munchèas’ chocolate macarons and honey sticks, chocolate bars from Insa and Meltdown, and a selection of infused beverages from Happy Valley, Vibations, and Wynk. Not to mention an extensive collection of gummy offerings from brands like Incredibles, Cannatini, Kanha, Hashables, and Treeworks.

The post Announcing The High Times Cannabis Cup Massachusetts: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

UK Urged to Ban Disposable Vapes as Over 5 Million Discarded Weekly

Summary: Environmentalists and health experts in the UK are pushing for a ban on disposable vapes, citing that more than 5 million of these devices are discarded every week, leading to significant environmental concerns.

The Environmental Cost of Vaping: UK Discards Over 5 Million Disposable Vapes Weekly

Environmentalists and health campaigners in the UK are calling for an outright ban on disposable vapes. Their concerns stem from the staggering number of these devices being discarded every week, which is estimated to be over 5 million. This massive waste is not only harmful to the environment but also poses potential health risks.

The popularity of vaping has surged in recent years, with many users viewing it as a safer alternative to traditional smoking. However, the environmental impact of single-use vapes is becoming increasingly evident. These devices, once used, end up in landfills, contributing to the growing problem of electronic waste. Moreover, the chemicals and metals found in discarded vapes can leach into the ground, contaminating soil and water sources.

Health experts are also concerned about the potential health risks associated with discarded vapes. Children and animals can accidentally ingest these devices, leading to poisoning. There’s also the broader issue of nicotine addiction, with many young people getting hooked on vaping.

Campaigners argue that while reusable vaping devices are a better alternative, the best solution would be to promote nicotine replacement therapies and other methods to help people quit smoking. They believe that a ban on disposable vapes would be a significant step in the right direction, reducing environmental harm and protecting public health.

Source: The Guardian

And we would like to know how can the vaping industry address the environmental concerns associated with single-use devices while still offering a perceived safer alternative to smoking? You know, it is important…


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AI Disclaimer: This news update was created using a AI tools. PsychePen is an AI author who is constantly improving. We appreciate your kindness and understanding as PsychePen continues to learn and develop. Please note that the provided information is derived from various sources and should not be considered as legal, financial, or medical advice.

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France Targets Youth Smoking with Disposable Vape Ban

Summary: French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne announced an upcoming disposable vape ban in France, as part of a national anti-smoking plan. The government aims to combat smoking, which causes 75,000 deaths annually in the country.

France’s Anti-Smoking Plan Includes Disposable Vape Ban

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne revealed on RTL radio that the government is planning a disposable vape ban in France. Although she did not specify when the ban would be implemented, she mentioned that it is part of a broader plan to combat smoking. Smoking is responsible for 75,000 deaths each year in France, and the government is keen on reducing this number.

The ban on disposable vapes is particularly targeted at young people, who Borne says are developing bad habits due to these products. “It’s a reflex and a gesture that young people get used to. That’s how they get into smoking,” she added.

Most disposable e-cigarettes come in flavors like pink lemonade, gummy bear, and watermelon, making them appealing to teenagers. These products are generally priced between 8 and 12 euros.

An existing ban on the sale of e-cigarettes to those under 18 is not being effectively enforced. Additionally, promoting or advertising such products is already prohibited in France.

The government is expected to unveil its comprehensive plan to combat smoking soon, which will include this ban among other measures.

Source: Time


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AI Disclaimer: This news update was created using a AI tools. PsychePen is an AI author who is constantly improving. We appreciate your kindness and understanding as PsychePen continues to learn and develop. Please note that the provided information is derived from various sources and should not be considered as legal, financial, or medical advice.

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Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup Arizona: People’s Choice Edition 2023

The High Times Cannabis Cup Arizona: People’s Choice Edition is back in the Grand Canyon state and it’s been refined to be bigger and better than ever before, presenting Arizona’s finest cannabis. People’s Choice means that anyone can participate in the judging process regardless of expertise and background. Arizona will be the last stop of the 2023 year for Cannabis Cup: People’s Choice Edition competitions, with crowd-sourced judging beginning in November.

Who will win the titles for the best cannabis products in Arizona? You be the judge. The event will be the second Cannabis Cup that is open to the Arizona public after going virtual in 2021, and the event will host the largest pool of judges in the state’s history, providing an ideal way for brands to get their products into the hands of consumers in the state.

Past winners include Alien Labs, Connected, Shango x True Harvest, Item 9 Labs, Baked Bros, and Ediquette Edibles.

This year’s event is recreational only, and all products must be licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS). Judge Kits go on sale on Saturday, Nov. 18, and Judges can login to the Judging Portal and critique products based on flavor, bouquet, potency, burnability, and so forth. Judging deadline is Sunday, Jan. 21. Winners will be announced via a digital Awards Show on Monday, February 5.

This year will feature more categories than ever before, expanding the palate of taste and smell to exemplify the best and most potent cannabis Arizona has to offer.

High Times Cannabis Cup Arizona: People’s Choice Edition Categories

The High Times Cannabis Cup Arizona: People’s Choice Edition will feature products from 12 different categories including Indica, Sativa, Hybrid, and Sungrown Flower, Non-infused Pre-Rolls, Infused Pre-rolls, Non-Solvent Concentrates, Distillate Vape Pens & Cartridges, Live Resin & Rosin Vape Pens, Edibles: Gummies & Fruit Chews, and finally Edibles & Non-Gummies. 

The quantity limits are set: Entry quantity requirements are 228 one-gram units of flower, 228 2-gram pre-rolls, 228 vape pens or cartridges. Infused Pre-Rolls will be capped at a max of one-half gram concentrate and 2.8 grams of flower. There will also be 228 half-gram units of Solvent Concentrates & Vape Pens. (We will not accept any one-gram entries of Solvent Concentrates & Vape Pens, and batteries required for carts.) 

Entry quantity requirements in other categories include 100 half-gram samples of Non-Solvent Concentrates, and 100 samples of Edibles with 50 mg of THC max. Entry fees are $250 for one entry, non-refundable, $100 per entry for two entries, and $100 per entry for three entries. High Times will waive all entry fees for top-tier sponsorships.

The good people of Arizona voted to legalize adult-use cannabis in 2020 via the statutory provision Prop. 207, found in Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 36, Chapter 28.2. This voter initiative allows adults over the age of 21 to possess, purchase, transport, or process up to one ounce or less of cannabis, or five grams or less of cannabis concentrate. This is what makes events like the Cannabis Cup: People’s Choice Edition possible.

In the face of COVID-19 with events being forced to shutter across the globe during 2020-2021, High Times once again proved its resilience despite statewide lockdowns across the country. We’ve reinvented our renowned competition to let all those at home get in on the fun and crown the region’s best.

High Times Cannabis Cup: A Background

High Times Cannabis Cup was originally created by former High Times editor Steven Hager over 35 years ago. Back then, the Cannabis Cup was originally held each November in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. 

In 2014, after 27 years in operation, Amsterdam held what was likely the final High Times Cannabis Cup in that country, due to increasing pressure on cannabis businesses and a 2010 raid by Dutch police that took place at the Cannabis Cup. The Netherlands, once known as a safe haven for cannabis smokers, is not what it used to be. Eventually it moved to the states, and the first U.S. Cannabis Cup was held in 2010. Around 2018, Cannabis Cup shifted its winter schedule in November to mostly summer and spring events.

High Times has become a multistate operation and now holds People’s Choice Edition Cannabis Cups in Illinois, Colorado, Oregon, Oklahoma, Southern California, Northern California, Michigan, Massachusetts, Nevada, and New Mexico. The High Times Cannabis Cup events frequently feature live music, educational seminars, and showcase cannabis-related products from cannabis-oriented businesses. The High Times Cannabis Cup New Mexico: People’s Choice Edition this year, for instance, will feature Method Man and Redman as headliners and will be hosted at the Rio Rancho Events Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Each Cannabis Cup event is different based on local restrictions.

To learn more, visit the website.

The post Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup Arizona: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

Israel to Raise Smoking Age to 21 & Ban Disposable Vapes

Summary: The Israeli Ministry of Health plans to raise the smoking age to 21, raise the tax on vapes and completely ban the sale of flavored tobacco and disposable e-cigarettes.

Israel Takes a Stand Against Tobacco: Raise Smoking Age to 21, Raise Tax On E-Cigarettes & Ban Disposable Vapes

The Isreali Ministry of Health has released a new action plan for all tobacco and smoking products. This comes in light of the recommendations of the national task force established by the ministry in May, which re-evaluated policies to combat the harms of cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

As part of the plan, the selling age will be raised to 21, and the sale of flavored tobacco and disposable e-cigarettes will be banned. Additionally, there will be a limit on the volume of refill liquid allowed for import, marketing, and sale. The Ministry of Health will also have the authority to enforce a ban on online advertising and to enforce a nicotine concentration limit in e-cigarettes.

A month is enough to do some damage…

The plan also includes a reduction in the sale points of tobacco and smoking products to only specialized stores. This is in addition to equating the tax on e-cigarettes to that of other tobacco products and adding graphic warnings on all tobacco and smoking products.

Health Minister Moshe Arbel stated, “The fight against smoking requires a complex and joint effort, and we are committed to implementing the policy in various areas of prevention and encouraging quitting, to promote public health – young and old alike – from smoking and its harms.

Source: KAN News


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And in the US everyone is vaping

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From Vaping to Warfare: How Ukraine Uses Disposable Vape Batteries Against Russia

Summary: In an unexpected turn of events, disposable vape batteries from Ukraine are being repurposed to aid in the war against Russia. These batteries are being used to power devices in the conflict, showcasing the adaptability and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian forces.


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The Unexpected Role of Disposable Vape Batteries in the Ukraine-Russia Conflict

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen both sides employ various tactics and resources. One of the more unconventional tools being used by the Ukrainian forces is disposable vape batteries. These batteries, originally intended for vaping devices, are now being repurposed to power equipment on the battlefield.

Let Cannabis heal your pain…

The decision to use vape batteries stems from their availability and the urgent need for power sources in the conflict zones. With traditional supply chains disrupted and the need for adaptable solutions, the Ukrainian forces have turned to these batteries as a readily available alternative.

The batteries are being used to power various devices, from communication equipment to surveillance tools. Their compact size, coupled with their ability to provide a consistent power output, makes them ideal for these applications. Moreover, the widespread popularity of vaping in Ukraine means that there is a significant stockpile of these batteries, making them a convenient resource.

This innovative approach underscores the adaptability and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian forces. In the face of adversity, they have found MacGyver ways to utilize everyday items in their efforts to defend their nation. While the use of vape batteries is just a small part of the broader conflict, it highlights the determination and ingenuity of the Ukrainian people.

[Source: Vaping360]

While in the US vaping is huge…

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And in the UK they are giving away free vapes…

(Image credit: BetsBuy)

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Swap-to-Stop: Free Vapes for Disadvantaged Smokers

Summary: A new study from the University of East Anglia (UK) supports the “Swap-to-Stop” scheme, a government initiative to provide million free vapes to disadvantaged people who smoke. The research indicates that this type of approach might have been beneficial to people who vape if it had been available when they attempted to quit.


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Providing Free Vapes to Smokers: A Beneficial Approach, Says Study

A new study from the University of East Anglia (UEA) supports the “Swap-to-Stop” scheme, a government initiative announced earlier in 2023 to provide million free vapes to disadvantaged people who smoke. The research indicates that this type of approach might have been beneficial to people who vape if it had been available when they attempted to quit. The study, titled “Medicalisation of Vaping in the UK? E-cigarette users’ perspectives on the merging of commercial and medical routes to vaping,” was published in the journal Perspectives in Public Health.

And in the US vaping is everywhere

However, the research also reveals that accessing vapes via the NHS might not appeal to everyone. Some people do not view e-cigarettes as treatments but rather as consumer products that they can shop for themselves. The research team suggests that both commercial and medical routes to vaping for quitting smoking should be available to satisfy personal preferences.

The study involved interviewing 136 people from across the UK, nearly all of whom had quit smoking via vaping. They were asked how helpful they would have found e-cigarettes being provided by the NHS when they were attempting to quit and their views on different ways to access vaping for quitting smoking. The research shows that people who quit smoking using commercially purchased vapes believe they might have benefitted from the NHS providing e-cigarettes and support if it had been available to them when they were quitting.

Or, perhaps vaping is a gateway to smoking?

Lead researcher Dr. Emma Ward, from UEA’s Norwich Medical School, stated, “Our research shows that people who quit smoking using commercially purchased vapes believe they might have benefitted from the NHS providing e-cigarettes and support if it had been available to them when they were quitting.” The research was carried out in collaboration with London South Bank University.

[Source: Medical Xpress]

Vaping is a HUGE business

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And meenwhile, people are tripping on fake LSD. Are you one of them?

The post Swap-to-Stop: Free Vapes for Disadvantaged Smokers appeared first on Cannadelics.

Is WHO (World Health Organization) Biased Against Vaping?

Summary: The World Vapers’ Alliance has accused the World Health Organization of biased anti-vaping scaremongering in its latest report on the global tobacco epidemic. The Alliance argues that the WHO’s focus on vaping undermines the use of it as a potent smoking cessation tool.


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World Vapers’ Alliance Challenges WHO’s Biased View on Vaping

The World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) has accused the World Health Organization of biased anti-vaping scaremongering following the publication of WHO’s “Report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2023.” The Alliance believes the report reaffirms WHO’s adversarial stance against the powerful impact of harm reduction and vaping.

Is it better than smoking?

Michael Landl, director of the WVA, criticized the report for its focus on vaping rather than on reducing smoking rates. He argued that vaping is the most potent smoking cessation tool available, and the WHO’s stance undermines this fact. The report claims a gateway effect from vaping to smoking and says it flavors target children. It also highlights that 121 countries have adopted vaping regulations, with 34 completely banning vape sales.

Landl dismissed these claims as outdated and debunked theories that pose risks to public health. He emphasized that flavors are essential for adults as they play a crucial role in helping millions of smokers transition to e-cigarettes. Landl also criticized the World Health Organization for celebrating countries which ban a less harmful alternative for smokers.

And while we debate, e-cigarettes sales are rising

The WVA director concluded by stating that the WHO’s lack of empathy for smokers and vapers, coupled with the outright denial of scientific findings, will have severe consequences for many lives. He urged the World Healtyh Organization to address real-life challenges and consider the scientific evidence supporting the benefits of e-cigarettes.

[Source: Talking Retail]

More and more people are usning e-cigarettes

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E-cigarettes might has its problems, but is smoking better?

The post Is WHO (World Health Organization) Biased Against Vaping? appeared first on Cannadelics.

Philip Morris Syqe-d to Buy Israeli Cannabis Company

Cigarette giant Philip Morris is getting in on the cannabis game, and is doing it through Israel. The corporation is set to buy out Syqe Medical, an Israeli company involved in the development of cannabis inhalers. What is Philip Morris up to?

Philip Morris to buy out Israeli cannabis company Syqe

On July 18th, Calcalist reported that major cigarette producer Philip Morris is planning to buy out Israeli company Syqe, the maker of cannabis inhaler technology. The deal is not complete, and the payout is expected to go up to about $650 million. Philip Morris has been helping out Syqe for awhile, in order to make this deal go down; it already paid a $120 million investment to help the company get FDA approval for its already existent inhaler.

Should Syqe get this approval, Philip Morris buys all the shares of the cannabis company. This purchase is contingent on Syqe getting its FDA approval, though. The product in question is a metered-dose cannabis inhaler, meant for pain treatment. Philip Morris isn’t new to inhalers, and even has a subsidiary company designated to them, Vectura. The British company, bought by Philip Morris in 2021, is handling the Syqe deal. Together, the two acquisitions show the cigarette giant’s move toward the smokeless arena.

Philip Morris previously invested in Syqe to the tune of $20 million, back in 2016. If the current valuation is actually $650 million, and the deal is completed, Syqe will jump in status under Philip Morris, to join the ten biggest cannabis operations in the world. To give an idea how much this helps Syqe’s investors, consider that prior to this deal, the company only received about $80 million in funding.

Syqe inhaler via Facebook

A little more about Syqe

What is this company which is interesting enough to Philip Morris to invest so much, at a time when cannabis companies are mostly having issues? Syqe was started in 2011 by founder and CEO Perry Davidson. The company has worked in inhaler development for eight years, leading to 120 patents.

The current main inhaler product provides a couple benefits to patients. For one, it allows patients to use raw cannabis flower, rather than a processed version. It also gives precise dosing, so patients get the exact amount of medication necessary, without getting unwanted psychoactive effects. Currently its difficult with either smoking or vaping, to get an exact dose; so though inhaler dosing exists for things like asthma medication, this is still a new method for cannabis administration.

The latter dosing aspect is definitely useful, but already exists with inhalers. The former point is interesting, in that this makes the inhaler almost like a vaporizer, just without the heat. You don’t stick dry flower or oil in there (often called inflorescence), but rather the inhaler comes with cartridges already set with the correct amount of plant material. The metered doses are loaded into a cartridge, which gets inserted into the device. The amount for a patient is predetermined and set, as either 250, 500, 750, or 1,000 mcg of THC per dose.

The inhaler is currently only available in Israel and Australia, and the markets are small. Israel’s is thought to service around 50,000 people, and is worth around $27.5 million. The inhalers are no longer given out by Israeli pharma company Teva. Syqe instead signed agreements with the Israeli government through the Ministry of Defense and a main healthcare provider. The goal now is to expand the market outside of Israel.

A little on Philip Morris

Philip Morris started out humbly in 1847, with one shop in London, England. It became known as Philip Morris & Co. Ltd. in 1885; and was incorporated in New York in 1902. It was incorporated as Philip Morris & Co. Ltd., Inc., in 1919 in Virginia. Philip Morris International came about in 1987, and was incorporated as the Philip Morris Companies Inc.’s operating company.

In early 2003, Philip Morris Companies Inc., rebranded itself as the Altria Group, in response to bad press attached to its name from lawsuits. Philip Morris International spun off from Altria in 2008. In 2015, despite declines in the industry, Philip Morris International sold 850 billion cigarettes globally.

Philip Morris International logo via Facebook
Philip Morris International logo via Facebook

Philip Morris is a Big Tobacco company, and the purveyor of the most popular brand of cigarettes worldwide, Marlboro. According to Statista, in 2022, Marlboro sales accounted for over $36 billion from global sales. The next biggest cigarette brand was L&M, which brought in $6.8 billion. L&M is also a Philip Morris company, as is Chesterfield, the 8th biggest seller that year with over $3.3 billion in sales. As per MacroTrends, as of July 2023, Philip Morris is worth $152.66 billion.

Of course, Philip Morris is also highly associated with the damage of cigarettes, and long-term cover-ups and denials of medical information, to maintain sales. In 2002, Philip Morris lost a case that left it paying out $28 billion to a single woman with lung cancer. This was one of many individual cases settled over the years. Another, from 2019, involved a $27 million payout to a single woman with cancer.

In the 1990’s more than 40 states litigated cigarettes companies, culminating in 1998, with the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, for which Philip Morris was one of four cigarette companies involved. The companies agreed to pay out $206 billion over 25 years to over 40 states. The deal also came with tons of restrictions for the cigarette companies; from advertising requirements to setting up organizations to keep young people from smoking.

The Philip Morris transformation

As per Harvard Business Revenue, back in 2016, Philip Morris, the manufacturer of the world’s most popular cigarette brand Marlboro, started getting into the smoke-free world. That year the company announced its desire to transform the business, and move toward healthier products for nicotine ingestion. It said in the initial announcement, that its goal was to get 40 million adults to stop smoking by 2025.

In 2017, it began the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World. The foundation was meant to be independent, but faced criticisms and doubts as to its independent nature. Its purpose is to “evaluate the impact that smoke-free alternatives can have on smokers and public health, assess the effect of reduced cigarette consumption on the industry value chain, and measure overall progress towards a smoke-free world.”

By 2020, the company claimed in a progress report that it shipped out 144 billion less cigarettes; and took credit for half this decrease due to its turn to smoke-free products. In that time it sold 52 billion smoke-free product units. At that time, the company took on a generally greener mentality for the future, with a stated desire to hit carbon neutrality by 2030, and to cut the amount of plastic litter it produces, in half.

It also instituted its “beyond nicotine” campaign, which brought it into the territory of natural compounds like fennel, chamomile, and sleep aids. Today 1/3 of its revenue comes from smokeless products, like its iQOS electronic cigarette smoking device.

Of course, not everyone likes that a cigarette company is selling healthier living, after so many low-down antics concerning cigarettes, and considering the company still sells them. Philip Morris is still often bypassed as a ‘sin’ company by many investors. Further to that, the company got criticized by the governments of several countries, and the WHO foundation. The WHO will not partner with or support Philip Morris’s changes, and encouraged governments and public health communities elsewhere to also avoid working with its foundation.

Conclusion

Big business, like government, is often more interested in its bottom line. Does Philip Morris care about our health, or is this a business move to stay in the game as cigarette sales decline. The UK just passed legislation to promote vaping over smoking, and intends to be the sole vape provider, which means it’ll profit greatly. One could argue that the policy is meant not to help people, but to corner a large illicit market. Perhaps the corporation and the government have similar goals.

It’s worth mentioning that despite the backlash Philip Morris got for its anti-smoking campaign, at least its doing something. On the other hand, the US government works tirelessly to keep people smoking. Whether through an attempted vape mail ban, targeting companies like Juul and Elf Bar, suppressing nicotine gummies, the many and varied vape smear campaigns, and an idea to decrease nicotine in cigarettes (something known to increase smoking); the US government seems to want you smoking, more than Philip Morris.

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