UK plans plain packaging and bans enticing vape names to protect children

The UK government has launched a 100-day consultation on measures to curb vaping among children, including plain packaging, limits on imagery and branding, banning flavour descriptions and names linked to confectionery, desserts and alcohol, and moving vapes out of sight in shops, according to BBC. The proposals were unveiled by Health Secretary James Murray.

The consultation follows the passing of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which includes a lifelong ban on buying cigarettes for anyone born after 1 January 2009 and powers to ban vaping in cars carrying children, in playgrounds, outside schools and at hospitals. The plans follow a ban on single-use vapes and come ahead of future bans on vape sales from vending machines and a planned end to vape advertising and sponsorship.

Around one million, or nearly one in five, 11-17 year olds in Great Britain reported trying vaping in 2025, the charity Action on Smoking and Health said.