The number of complaints about illegal vapes being sold in Bradford has now eclipsed the number of reports of illegal cigarettes.
And a new report has revealed that seven out of 20 vape shops where test purchases were carried out sold vape products to a child.
Members of the Bradford and Airedale Wellbeing Board will be given an update on work to reduce smoking rates in the District at a meeting on Tuesday.
They will also hear of rising problems relating to vapes, from products being sold to children to shops stocking illegal products.
The report says Trading Standards receives more complaints about illegal vapes sold in Bradford than any other area of West Yorkshire.
The committee, made up of representatives from public bodies including Bradford Council, West Yorkshire Police and local NHS Trusts, will be told that vaping is a useful tool to encourage people to stop smoking.
But there are concerns abour the rising popularity of vaping among people who have never smoked to begin with.
A report to members says “Evidence suggests that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking and can be an effective aid in smoking cessation.
“However, the increasing prevalence of youth vaping has prompted calls for stricter regulations to prevent non-smokers from taking up the habit and to curb potential health risks.”
It goes on to detail the local issues with illegal vapes – which can include products with oversized tanks, or single use vapes.
The report says: “Illicit vaping products present a growing challenge.
“Bradford has reported a surge in complaints about illegal vape sales, surpassing concerns over illicit tobacco.
“Many of these products do not comply with UK regulations, posing additional health risks.
“West Yorkshire Trading Standards has led enforcement efforts, resulting in numerous seizures of illegal vapes, but stronger penalties and improved public reporting mechanisms are needed.
“The sale of illicit tobacco and vapes is worth millions of pounds and is closely linked to serious organised crime.
“The cost-of-living crisis has contributed to increased sales of illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly in deprived areas.
“Illegal products may contain unregulated additives, higher nicotine concentrations and other harmful substances.
“WYTS data indicates that Bradford receives more complaints about illegal vape sales than other West Yorkshire local authorities, with illicit vape complaints now surpassing those related to illicit tobacco.
“In the last 12 months, 7 out of 20 test purchase attempts resulted in sales to an underage individual. Selling vapes to under-18s is, however already illegal and the public can report violations to West Yorkshire Trading Standards (WYTS) at 0808 223 1133.”
By: Chris Young, LDRS
