Health officials warn of risks associated with nicotine-free vaping devices

FILE – In this April 23, 2014, file photo, a man smokes an e-cigarette in Chicago. Schools across the country are installing sensors and cameras to crack down on student vaping and issuing stiff penalties for those caught. Schools have invested millions of dollars in surveillance technology, including federal COVID-19 relief funds meant 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.

Promoted for their fruity flavors and sleek design, these new vaping devices are being marketed as a safer alternative to traditional smoking.

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

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

State health officials argue that the availability of these vaping products perpetuates smoking behavior and attempts to evade regulatory oversight.

Under current Hawaii e-cigarette law, these nicotine-free vapes are classified as tobacco products and can be legally sold, but their sale is prohibited to people under the age of 18.

“We want the public to be aware that these products, although marketed as nicotine-free and potentially harmless, nevertheless carry significant health risks,” Wong said.

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