Evaluation Of Laboratory Tests For E-Cigarettes In Indonesia Based On Who’s Nine Toxicants

Abstract

Concern for the potential health risks, social and economic impacts, and regulatory requirements of electronic cigarettes has grown with their expanding use globally. The study evaluated the nicotine content and nine toxicants the World Health Organization targeted in 60 e-cigarette samples in Indonesia. Three types of conventional cigarettes were also tested for comparison. The test results indicates that the nicotine levels in e-liquid are generally lower than those stated on the label. Carbon monoxide (CO) does not exist in vapor; while 1,3-butadiene, benzene, N-nitrosonornicotin (NNN), and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) are below the limit of detection (LOD) in all samples analyzed. One freebase nicotine sample and five salt-based nicotine samples were positive for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), with levels lower than the limit of quantification (LOQ). Only one sample contained detectable acrolein at 0.43 µg/puff. Formaldehyde was found in all the closed-system e-cigarettes and some freebase nicotine at levels below LOQ, while the remaining samples had an average formaldehyde content of just 0.7 µg/puff. Both samples registered acetaldehyde below LOQ except for that of one sample of salt-based nicotine and freebase nicotine with values of 1.55 µg/puff and 1.75 µg/puff, respectively. Overall, the levels of toxins in e-cigarettes were significantly lower than those of conventional cigarettes. These results indicate the necessity for consumer awareness regarding potential health risks of e-cigarette use. To ensure transparency in nicotine delivery and toxicant exposure, policymakers need to be urged to implement standardized testing methods and labelling practices.