Authority seizes 70,000 illegal sweet-flavored vape bottles from Gelderland importer

The Dutch Food and Consumer Authority (NVWA) confiscated 70,000 bottles of prohibited vape refill liquids from an importer in Gelderland. These liquids contained sweet flavors and are banned for sale in the Netherlands. The importer violated the law by distributing the products and now faces an administrative fine. The seized bottles will be destroyed at the importer’s expense.

NVWA inspectors, acting on tips that the importer ignored the ban, searched a warehouse in Zuid-Holland. They discovered approximately 200 boxes filled with bottles flavored as strawberry, watermelon, and lemonade. Under Dutch law, only tobacco-flavored vapes and e-liquids are legally permitted to be sold.

The ban on flavored vape liquids, effective since January 1, 2024, aims to protect youth from the appeal of sweet tastes. Experts and government officials say young people are particularly drawn to flavors like watermelon, mango, strawberry, and cola, increasing the risk of nicotine addiction.

The NVWA stressed that the production, import, and sale of sweet-flavored vape liquids make these addictive and harmful products more accessible to young people. Vaping is addictive and poses serious health risks.

"By enforcing these regulations, the NVWA supports the National Prevention Agreement’s goal of achieving a smoke-free generation by 2040," the agency said.

The NVWA also highlighted the importance of education alongside enforcement. The ongoing campaign "Nee tegen vapen" (No to Vaping) targets youth and parents to reduce vaping rates among minors. Despite the ban, illegal trade in flavored vape products continues. Earlier reporting by NOS Stories revealed that youth still use flavored vapes, with dealers persisting in the illicit market.

In addition to concerns about flavored liquids, researchers and medical experts warn about the rise of so-called “smartvapes.” These devices combine vaping with features like phone calls, messaging, music, and gaming. Pediatric pulmonologist Sophie Cohen told NOS that smartvapes are “an incredibly messed-up device,” expressing concern about their appeal and health impact on children.