14/06/2023 - £21,000 of illegal vapes seized from a shop by Luton Trading Standards

The value of the products seized from the shop was £21,000. Follow-up action will be taken, including engaging with the landlord of the property.

The seizure was made on 1 June 2023, during a check of a number of premises across Luton by Trading Standards Officers.

Vapes above 2ml liquid and 2% nicotine and above 600 puffs are illegal. These illicit devices often contain high levels of lead, nickel and chromium.

It is also illegal to sell any nicotine vape to persons under the age of 18. Those aged 18 and above who choose to vape are encouraged to check that any product they purchase has been approved for sale in the UK by checking the MHRA website https://cms.mhra.gov.uk/ecig-new. Checking the MHRA website is encouraged as there are also counterfeit vapes that have 600 puffs or less, which contain harmful chemicals.

Luton Trading Standards have conducted a series of routine checks across Luton in 2023, resulting in a series of prosecutions for stores that possess and sell illegal vapes, counterfeit and non-duty paid cigarettes and tobacco. 12,500 illegal vapes have been seized so far, whilst engagement with landlords of 6 premises in Luton has resulted in leases being terminated.

Councillor Maria Lovell, portfolio holder for Women, Equalities and Community Safety, said “It is extremely concerning that shop owners are exploiting young persons and adults in our town, by selling nicotine products without any age verification checks, and no concern over the health of fellow Lutonians. This also includes the sale of illicit, counterfeit and non-duty paid cigarettes."

I would like to thank the landlords of retail premises in Luton that have made the right decision to terminate leases with those tenants that are involved in criminal activity. We need to ensure that only responsible, compliant traders operate in our community and that we rid ourselves of this persistent, organised crime.”