Underage vaping to curbed by Vapour Products Association of South Africa

The Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) reiterates the importance of parents, schools and retailers working together to prevent the youth from experimenting with vaping.

During the festive season, the eagerly anticipated school holidays saw learners catch up with friends, enjoy their hobbies and take a well-deserved break from school.

However, if they were left unsupervised, it could have been time for them to experiment with various substances, including vaping.

ALSO READ: A practical guide on how to quit vaping

“During the holiday period, parents are encouraged to consistently and actively be on guard to help prevent the youth from experimenting with vaping products and to have open conversations with their children about the addictive nature of nicotine vaping,” said Asanda Gcoyi, the CEO of VPASA.

She said VPASA urges parents to be extra vigilant during this time and pay close attention to possible changes in their children’s behaviour for potential signs of nicotine addiction.

According to Gcoyi, some signs that a child may be vaping include an unfamiliar scent in the house, their bedroom, or on the child. These aromas can range from chocolate to a fruity scent.

Also, look for increased thirst due to a dry mouth, equipment that might look like a USB drive, and cables or cartridges in the house or on their person.

ALSO READ: Get yourself tested on World Hypertension Day

Additionally, she said parents must pay close attention to possible changes in their behaviour. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms in minors can cause irritation, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.

“Since its launch in 2021, VPASA’s campaign has been adamant to incorporate responsible retailing, as well as positive parenting, to prevent youth access to electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems (ENNDS),” she explained.

“From a retailer’s perspective, this can be achieved through collaboration by restricting sales to persons under 18, monitoring packaging and artwork choices, ensuring accurate product information, and harnessing the involvement of retailers and parents.

“Despite growing proof that vaping is less harmful than smoking, VPASA – representing manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of smoke-free vapour products in SA – is committed to preventing youth access to vaping products,“ she added.

VPASA and its retail members have agreed that the packaging of vaping products must contain accurate product information with vital warnings and advisories.

ALSO READ: Nip your teen’s smoking habit in the “butt”

Age restrictions must be clearly visible on the packaging, and attention must be given to the artwork choices.

This means the artwork featured on vaping products must not appeal to minors and be devoid of popular animation movies or characters, childlike themes, and packaging that imitates popular sweets and treats.

The campaign also prohibits depicting persons aged under 25 in any advertising or promotional materials. These materials should not suggest that using end products is essential to social prominence, distinction, success or sexual desirability.

Also prohibited is advertising at educational establishments and retail and health facilities besides pharmacies.

“VPASA members have also agreed to an age verification policy for online, face-to-face and delivery purchases,” said Gcoyi.

“VPASA and our members are eagerly taking strides to ensure no minor has access to vaping products. However, for this to succeed, these messages need to be amplified through retailers and the parents of minors involved.

“This collaboration is essential for a society where no minor child uses vaping products,” said Gcoyi.