Will E-Cigarettes Replace Traditional Cigarettes?

The devices vaporize liquid nicotine, which is then inhaled by the user. These instruments are presumed to be safer than smoking traditional cigarettes. However, new concerns about the safety of the e-cigs has many investors keeping to the sidelines in this space.

Big Tobacco On Board

Big name tobacco companies like Altria Group Inc MO and Reynolds American, Inc. RAI jumped on board the growing e-cig trend in order to offset declining cigarette sales.

Both companies have worked to make their vaporizer pens state of the art by including computer chips that regulate the amount of flavoring and nicotine delivered. They have also invested in developing long-lasting batteries.

Related Link: Imperial Tobacco Posts Rise In H1 Profit

Could China's Market Open Up?

The market for e-cigs in China has remained relatively small, despite the fact that the nation is the world's largest tobacco market.

However, this month a new law that bans smoking in public places in Beijing could help spur on the vaping trend.

Concerns Arise

While smoking bans initially increased e-cigs' popularity, many cities are beginning to ban the pens' use as well.

On Tuesday, policymakers in Wales proposed a law banning e-cigs in enclosed spaces, something nations like Ireland have already done.

Although e-cigs may be better for a smoker's health than traditional cigarettes, critics say not enough is known about the effects that vaporizer pens have on people's health.

Related Link: E-Cigarettes Can Expose Building Occupants To Nicotine And Other Airborn Pollutants

Flavorings Questioned

A new study published in Tobacco Control suggested that the flavorings used in e-cigs could cause long-term health problems that haven't become evident yet, as the industry is still relatively new.

Some of the chemicals used to flavor the vapor could be toxic, as the amount used is completely unregulated.

Encouraging Smoking

Another concern with the pens has been their appeal to young, non-smokers. Enticing flavors like caramel apple and bubble gum have been criticized as appealing to children.

Many worry that the pens make smoking appear to be safe and that the flavors could make the experience more enjoyable for first time users.