What Is E-Liquid and Is It Safe? A Simple Guide for UK Vapers 

What Is E-Liquid and Is It Safe? A Simple Guide for UK Vapers 

If you’re new to vaping, understanding what’s in your vape juice can be confusing. From VG and PG to nicotine and flavourings – there’s a lot to take in. 

This simple guide explains what e-liquid is, what it’s made of, and whether it’s safe to use. 

What Is E-Liquid? 

E-liquid (also called vape juice) is the liquid used in your vape device. When heated, it turns into vapour for you to inhale. 

A typical e-liquid contains: 

1. VG (Vegetable Glycerine)
2. PG (Propylene Glycol)
3. Flavourings
4. Nicotine (optional)

Let’s break each one down: 

VG (Vegetable Glycerine) 

• VG is a thick, slightly sweet liquid. 
• It creates large, smooth clouds of vapour. 
• It’s made from plants (usually palm or soy). 

Where else is VG found? 

• Food products (icing, sweets, low-fat foods) 
• Skincare and cosmetics 
• Medicines and cough syrups 

Is VG dangerous?

No – it’s widely used in food and medicine. When used in UK-regulated e-liquids, it’s considered safe for inhalation by authorities like the MHRA. 

PG (Propylene Glycol) 

• PG is a thinner liquid that carries flavour and gives you a stronger throat hit. 
• It helps deliver nicotine more effectively. 

Where else is PG found? 

• Food flavourings and ice cream 
• Toothpaste and mouthwash 
• Medical inhalers (like those for asthma) 

Is PG dangerous?

PG is generally recognised as safe for inhalation and ingestion in controlled amounts. It’s been used in medical products for decades. 

What About Nicotine? 

Nicotine is optional in vape liquids. It comes in various strengths and types (freebase, salt, hybrid), and is used to help smokers quit cigarettes. 

E-liquids sold in the UK are limited to 20mg/ml of nicotine and must follow strict safety regulations. 

What’s the Difference Between High VG and Low VG? 

The VG/PG ratio tells you how thick the e-liquid is, how much vapour it produces, and what kind of vape kit it works best in. 

High VG (e.g. 70/30 or 80/20) 

• More vapour, smoother inhale 
• Thicker liquid 
• Found in shortfills (larger bottles) 
• Best for sub-ohm kits (bigger devices) 

Low VG / 50/50 or High PG 

• More throat hit, better flavour 
• Thinner liquid 
• Found in 10ml bottles and nic salts
• Ideal for pod kits and starter pens

Are E-Liquids Safe to Vape? 

Yes – as long as you’re buying from a reputable UK vape shop. 

All e-liquids sold in the UK are regulated under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR). This means: 

• Ingredients are tested and registered. 
• Bottles with nicotine are capped at 10ml. 
• Clear labels and warnings are required. 
• No harmful additives like vitamin E acetate are allowed. 

Avoid buying unregulated products from overseas websites or unknown sellers – these can be unsafe. 

Quick Summary: 

Ingredient	What it Does	Where Else It’s Found	Is It Safe?
VG	Produces vapour	Food, cosmetics	Yes
PG	Carries flavour, adds throat hit	Food, toothpaste, inhalers	Yes
Nicotine	Optional – supports quitting smoking	Cigarettes, NRT	Yes (within UK limits)

Final Thoughts 

E-liquid is made from ingredients commonly found in everyday products. Thanks to strict UK regulations, vaping is considered a safer alternative to smoking – especially when using trusted brands and proper devices. 

Still unsure which e-liquid is right for you?

Visit Vapourium in-store or browse online – our team is always happy to help.