Health officials warn of dangers of nicotine-free vaping devices

FILE – In this April 23, 2014 file photo, a man smokes an electronic cigarette in Chicago. Schools across the country are installing sensors and cameras to crack down on student vaping and are handing out stiff penalties to many who are caught. Schools have invested millions of dollars in surveillance technology, including federal COVID-19 relief funds to help schools weather the pandemic. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawaii State Department of Health issued a warning Tuesday about a new nicotine-free vaping device that recently hit the market.

Touted for their fruity flavor and sleek design, these new vaporizing devices are touted as a safer alternative to traditional smoking.

However, health officials warn that these products may still pose health risks.

“Whether they contain nicotine or not, these devices still contain many of the chemicals commonly found in e-cigarettes that are known to be harmful to health,” said Dr. Emily Wong, a spokeswoman for the Hawaii State Department of Health. “These include metals and volatile organic compounds.”

Health officials say the availability of these vaping products perpetuates the smoking habit and is an attempt to circumvent regulatory oversight.

Under Hawaii’s e-cigarette law, these nicotine-free vaporizers are classified as tobacco products and can be legally sold, but they are prohibited for sale to anyone under the age of 18.

“We want the public to be aware that these products, although advertised as nicotine-free and potentially harmless, still carry serious health risks,” Wong stressed.

The Ministry of Health advises consumers, especially young adults and parents, to exercise caution and educate themselves about the potential health effects associated with these new vaping products.