Is Vaping Safer Than Smoking? What You Need to Know in 2025

In the past few years, vaping has been at the center of significant health debates, with reports linking it to lung injuries, particularly among younger users. In 2019, the CDC recorded numerous cases of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury), with many instances involving counterfeit THC products containing vitamin E acetate. Since then, concerns over the potential risks of vaping, such as the presence of certain compounds in vape products, have continued to grow. As we approach 2025, questions surrounding the safety of vaping and changing regulations remain a key part of the public discussion. While vaping is often promoted as a safer alternative to smoking for adults looking to quit, its rising popularity among non-smokers and younger adults introduces additional considerations.

Potmates is dedicated to delivering premium cannabis products to Portland, including safe, high-quality vape cartridges. Since our launch on April 20, 2020, we’ve made it our mission to make the process of buying and consuming cannabis responsibly easier and more enjoyable. We proudly partner with Oregon-based, environmentally-conscious growers to ensure that our customers receive trusted products. At Potmates, we promote responsible consumption through education and offer free delivery with no minimum purchase. Our vape selection meets stringent safety standards, so you can feel confident enjoying your cannabis experience with peace of mind.

Vaping is often regarded as a less harmful alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. As an

Article by NIH

, Vaping, Environmental Toxicants Exposure, and Lung Cancer Risk, points out, cigarettes are known to contain thousands of chemicals, including many harmful compounds. In contrast, vaping products typically contain fewer substances, but they still include ingredients like nicotine, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds that can present their own risks. Some reports, including those from global health organizations, highlight concerns about the potential effects of inhaling vape-related chemicals, particularly among younger individuals and non-smokers.

Though vaping has only been popular for about a decade, emerging research indicates that it may carry long-term risks, similar to those posed by smoking. Chemicals found in vape liquids, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and certain flavoring agents, have been connected to potential issues like cellular damage. Studies continue to examine the possible relationship between vaping and long-term respiratory health. Additionally, because vapes may deliver significant levels of nicotine, they might lead to dependency, making it difficult for users to quit.

A growing concern around vaping is its increasing popularity among younger people. In the UK, for example, the number of teenagers and young adults using vapes has surged in recent years. Data from a

BBC article

in 2023 shows that nearly 8% of 11-17-year-olds had tried vaping. Many fear that vaping could lead to nicotine dependency, increasing the chances of young people transitioning to smoking. With sweet, colorful vape products marketed to teens, regulators are implementing stricter guidelines to reduce youth access and exposure to these products.

The growing availability of illegal and counterfeit vape products has introduced additional risks into the vaping market. These unregulated products may contain chemicals that are not present in legitimate, tested vapes. For example, black-market vapes have been found to contain substances such as vitamin E acetate, which was linked to major health incidents in 2019. Counterfeit vape cartridges may also include pesticides, toxic metals, and other potentially harmful additives. Without proper regulation, these products can pose significant risks to consumers.

In 2019, health organizations reported over 2,500 cases of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury) in the United States. Many of these cases were associated with the use of THC-containing vape products that included vitamin E acetate. This additive was identified as a key contributor to the injuries. In response to this crisis, there has been a stronger emphasis on regulating the vaping industry and cracking down on illicit products, helping raise awareness of the dangers linked to untrustworthy sources.

It’s essential for consumers to be able to distinguish between safe, legal vape products and potentially dangerous counterfeit ones. Legitimate vape products are typically sold by licensed dispensaries and come with clear labeling that includes ingredient lists, THC/CBD concentrations, and lab testing results. Reputable vape brands often provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. To stay safe, avoid purchasing vapes from unregulated sources, as these products may not meet the necessary safety standards.

A growing issue surrounding vaping is the environmental impact, especially when it comes to disposable vapes. These single-use products contribute to significant waste, as they are made from materials like lithium batteries and plastic that are challenging to recycle. With millions of disposable vapes being discarded each week, they add to the growing problem of electronic waste and environmental pollution. When improperly disposed of, these devices may release harmful chemicals into the soil and water, further increasing their ecological footprint.

While recycling vapes is an option, it remains underutilized. Research from 2023 showed that only 17% of vapers recycle their disposable devices. This low participation may be due to a lack of awareness or guidance on how and where to recycle these products. However, some recycling programs allow users to return used cartridges and batteries to specific drop-off locations. To reduce waste, consumers are encouraged to choose reusable, refillable vapes over single-use options, which can significantly lessen environmental impact.

As environmental concerns grow, governments worldwide are introducing new regulations. In the UK, for example, a ban on disposable vapes is set to take effect in April 2025 as part of broader efforts to minimize environmental harm. Similar legislation is being considered in other countries, along with stricter rules on marketing vapes to younger audiences and penalties for selling to underage consumers. These changes signal a global shift towards greater accountability in the vaping industry for its environmental and public health impact.

One of the most crucial steps to ensure a safe vaping experience is to purchase products from trusted, licensed dispensaries or retailers. Certified vape products go through rigorous testing to meet safety standards and are verified to be free from harmful additives. Look for products that have been tested by third-party labs, which should provide certificates of analysis (COAs). These COAs detail the contents of each product, including THC/CBD levels, potential contaminants, and solvents used in the extraction process.

Being informed about the ingredients in your vape is essential for making safe choices. Some compounds, such as vitamin E acetate, propylene glycol, and certain flavoring chemicals, have raised concerns regarding their safety. To avoid these risks, choose vape products that are made using safe and clean extraction methods, and steer clear of artificial additives. Many reputable cannabis brands are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, so don’t hesitate to ask for additional information.

As we enter 2025, vaping regulations continue to evolve. Keeping up to date with changes in laws around vape product safety, marketing, and accessibility is important. Governments worldwide are increasing efforts to protect consumers by banning certain ingredients, regulating flavors, and cracking down on illegal products. Staying informed about these developments will help you make safer, more responsible choices when purchasing vape products.

At Potmates, we’re dedicated to offering Portland safe, high-quality cannabis products you can trust. Our commitment to sustainability and responsible consumption means all our vape products undergo rigorous testing and are sourced from Oregon-based growers who share our values. As vaping continues to evolve, making informed choices is key to prioritizing both your well-being and the environment. When you choose Potmates, you’re choosing top-tier products delivered straight to your door, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Ready to explore our curated selection? Visit Potmates today and elevate your next cannabis experience.

The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your health or the use of vape products. Potmates does not claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health conditions.