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UK to Push Vaping: Wants Smokers to Switch

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2 years ago

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While the US continues to go after Juul for providing a non-smoking way to get nicotine, the UK is a huge step ahead. After an independent advisory put out a report last year which confirmed that vaping is a much healthier option than smoking, the government of the UK is now instituting measures to get smokers to switch to vaping.

What was the report about?

On June 19th of 2022, the UK published an independent report which had been commissioned by health secretary, Sajid Javid. The main purpose of the review, is to better enable the government to tackle the issue of smoking in the UK; which has a goal to be smoke-free by 2030 (down to 5% or below). Led by Dr Javed Khan OBE, the review looked to identify more ways in which the UK government could help smokers kick the habit, with the hope of residents leading more healthy lives.

The report made 15 recommendations. These points cover different aspects of the issue including increasing money for cessation programs, yearly raising the smoking age until its no longer legal for any age (similar to New Zealand), licensing requirements for tobacco providers, assessing packaging to create less desirable-looking products, large anti-smoking campaigns, and using vaping as a way to get smokers to switch from cigarettes.

This last point is interesting, because of how blatantly different it is from the government stance of the US. Not only does the US government continue to tell residents that vaping is dangerous, (despite it so obviously being better than smoking), but it also keeps going after and bullying the biggest retailer for nicotine vaping – Juul; despite no confirmed reports of actual injury directly related to their products.

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The reason the UK put out the report is to combat the rising death and injury caused by smoking. Every year, approximately 78,000 people die across the UK, and about one in seven is an active smoker. In the year 2019-2020, 506,100 people were admitted to a hospital for smoking-related issues, a 10% increase from 10 years before. Also that year, 710,000 products to quit smoking were sold; which shows a huge desire among the people themselves for an answer to the addiction.

According to Action on Smoking and Health, the Global Burden Study of Disease 2019 points to smoking as the biggest risk factor for death. Whereas being overweight contributed to 56,215 deaths, and alcohol to 25,242 deaths, smoking contributed to 119,776. Incidentally, sedentary lifestyles contributed to 14,335, and drug use outside alcohol, 5,015.

Main causes of smoking deaths relate to heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In fact, 52% of all cancer deaths were related to smoking, equating to about 35,500 deaths. Smoking was also responsible for 35% of deaths related to respiratory issues for that year, making for approximately 23,700 deaths. About 14,700 deaths came from circulatory issues, which accounted for 13% in the category; and 15% of deaths overall were eyed as smoking-related in general.

UK government officially pushing vaping over smoking

The report came out many months ago, and now, the UK is finally releasing some of the new programming to come out of the recommendations. All new policies are designed to meet three goals: help adults quit smoking, to use vaping to help people quit smoking, and to stop people from starting to vape.

One of the first measures? To promote a campaign for people smoking to switch to vaping. Put out by the Department of Health and Social Care along with Neil O’Brien MP, the plan is to help one million cigarette smokers, under the name ‘Swap to Stop.’ This is not about giving people friendly advice about vaping, the government will actually provide vape starter kits to the million people.

Which means the UK government isn’t just saying vaping is a better option, its actively trying to get people to do it over smoking. Plus, it doesn’t stop with this swap, but is accompanied by behavioral support to effectively quit. Right now its all to be handled through the federal government, but local governments will participate later in the year; and will be able to prioritize who gets the vape products in their respective jurisdictions.

Nicotine vapes
Nicotine vapes

What else does the new anti-smoking programming entail?

Apart from the UK government encouraging vaping to get people to stop smoking, the government is instituting some other programming to reduce smoking rates. One is geared toward pregnant women, who will be offered financial incentives to stop smoking in the form of vouchers. This will be relevant to every smoking mother, and is to be instituted in full by the end of 2024. The hope is this will lead to less underweight/underdeveloped babies in need of care, and fewer miscarriages and stillbirths.

Another thing? The government wants those opening cigarettes to be met with positivity and smoking cessation information. It will eventually (after consultations) establish mandatory requirements for inserts in each package. At the same time, it wants to reduce any attractiveness in packaging, that could itself attract buyers.

Furthermore, since the government is now the entity providing the vapes, its cracking down on illicit sales. The government doesn’t want residents to buy anything from which it doesn’t get a cut. This keeps out dirty products, but it also means that the government is going to make people wait to quit, since it can’t provide devices to everyone at once…a huge indication this is about illegal markets as much – if not more – than improving heath. The government is shutting down illicit sellers; under the line that its to keep kids from starting to vape.

The government is putting £3 million into creating an ‘illicit vapes enforcement squad,’ which actually sounds quite extreme considering its about to give the same devices out to the public. It must really want to root out competitor business. Along with this, the new strategy will also seek to stamp out illicit tobacco sellers via new regulations to be made by HMRC and Border Force. This includes targeting, catching, and punishing illicit operators. Again, this all points to ensuring tax revenue.

Direct from the government

In his announcement, Health Minister Neil O’Brien stated: “Up to 2 out of 3 lifelong smokers will die from smoking.” And that “cigarettes are the only product on sale which will kill you if used correctly.”

He went on, “We will offer a million smokers new help to quit. We will be funding a new national ‘swap to stop’ scheme – the first of its kind in the world. We will work with councils and others to offer a million smokers across England a free vaping starter kit.”

UK to push vaping over cigarettes
UK to push vaping over cigarettes

According to the ministry of health, 2021 smoking numbers were the lowest on record at 13%, which shows an already existent trend away from smoking. The UK government doubled the taxes on cigarettes back in 2010, making it one of the highest cigarette taxers in the world. According to 2015 WHO data, the UK taxes cigarettes at 82.16% (85.69% as per EU data), which means the UK government makes a lot of money from these taxes. The thing is, many sales are not for legal companies, and for those sales, it collects nothing.

More recently in 2021-2022, the government allocated £68 million from public health grants to services for smoking cessation. The government is also committing £35 million to the NHS this year so that every smoker admitted to a hospital can receive services to quit smoking.

In terms of vaping, the NHS says that in 2021, in the age range 11-15, that 9% were using tobacco vape products, which is up from 6% in 2018. And while this should be looked at as a good thing in that it means they’re not smoking, this increase is not only being called ‘sharp,’ but O’Brien is set to launch “a call for evidence on youth vaping to identify opportunities to reduce the number of children accessing and using vape products – and explore where government can go further.”

For those paying attention it means his ‘call for evidence’ is only after setting a policy. There is a massive contradiction in using vapes to help people stop smoking, just to turn around and say they’re too dangerous for kids to know about. Logically this will never make sense as tons of movies and shows depict constant smokers, something kids will learn about young. My guess is that there isn’t any intention to have kids stop vaping, and this is a move of optics. After all, the government is working so hard to corner the industry, why would it want to lessen its base of potential buyers?!

Conclusion

For the most part this is great news. Even if its also an effort to streamline an industry to help ensure less illicit non-taxpaying sellers. Despite that as a possible co-motive; given the smear campaigns against vaping in the States, its a nice dose of reality. It will be interesting to follow this story, and track progress over time.

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alcohol

The Best Tariff Friendly Cocktails

Published

9 hours ago

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April 4, 2025

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The weekend is for fun, so here are some affordable cocktails to kick back and relax

There has been a buzz about tariffs and the global stock markets are quaking. But most don’t realize at the end of hte day, as people settle down, their favorite cocktails will be hit. Foreign alcohol is significantly impacted by tariffs imposed by the current adminstartion. These tariffs include a 25% levy on all beer imports, additional tariffs on aluminum used in beer cans, and varying tariffs on wines and spirits from different regions. Popular brands such as Guinness stout (produced by Diageo), Italian Campari liqueur, and imported beers like Corona and Heineken are directly affected. Tequila has been on the list, but currently has escaped.  To help the wallet and the throat, here are the best tariff friendly cocktails.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Strawberry Bourbon Basil Smash

What better way to relax than with some good, old-fashioned bourbon.  This cocktail combines the rich flavor of barrel aged bourbon with spring treats like strawberries and fresh basil.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup fresh strawberries, cut into chunks
  • 5 leaves fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons simple syrup
  • 3 fluid ops bourbon
  • 1/2 cup ice, or as needed
  • 3 fluid ozs sparkling water, or as needed

Create

  1. Muddle strawberries, basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup together in a cocktail glass until smashed together and fragrant
  2. Add bourbon and ice
  3. Stir to combine
  4. Top with sparkling water

Hard Ball

After a tough week or if you just want to start the evening off with a different note, consider this cocktail. The story of peanut butter whiskey, most notably Skrewball, begins with Steven Yeng, a Cambodian refugee who, after immigrating to the US, developed a love for peanut butter and later combined it with whiskey to create a popular cocktail at his bar, which eventually led to the creation of the brand in 2018. Skrewball is made in San Diego.

Ingredients

  • 1½ ozs Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
  • 4 ozs Berry flavored Hard Seltzer

Create

  1. Combine ingredients in a highball glass
  2. Add ice
  3. Stir and enjoy

American Mule

Vodka’s history is rooted in Eastern Europe, with both Russia and Poland claiming its origins, though the word “vodka” itself is Russian, meaning “little water”. While the exact origins are debated, the earliest written records of vodka-like spirits appear in the 14th century, with the word “wódka” appearing in Polish documents in 1405.  But why not put an American spin on it using Tito’s, which is made in Texas, and have a popular American Mule.

  • 1 1/2 oz Tito’s Vodka
  • 3 oz ginger beer
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 lime slice for garnish

Create

  1. Combine ingredients in a chilled glass
  2. Add ice and stir
  3. Garnish with lime wedge

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Cucumber Gimlet

This cocktail feels like you are diving directly into summer, skipping spring.  The cucumber brings a whole level of freshness.  Crisp, cool and completely tariff free.

Ingredients

  • 3 cucumber wheels, thickly sliced
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 2 ozs gin
  • 3/4 oz lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • Cucumber wheel, sliced thinly for garnish

Create

  1. Add the cucumber wheels and simple syrup into a shaker and muddle
  2. Add the gin, the lime juice and ice and shake until well-chilled
  3. Strain into a coupe glass
  4. Garnish with a cucumber wheel



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Cannabis

Cannabis Consumers Are Being Hit By The Tariffs

Published

12 hours ago

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April 4, 2025

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Tariffs are the word of the day – but marijuana consumers need to be ready to see a change also.

From apples to automobiles, hundreds of industries are trying to figure out the new tariffs.  What is clear is prices are going up on a random amount of things.  But, why is a surprise, is cannabis consumers are being hit by the tariffs also. Although cannabis itself cannot be imported or exported due to federal restrictions, the industry heavily relies on international suppliers for key components like vaporizer hardware, packaging, and cultivation equipment.

RELATED: Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

For instance, products sourced from China now face cumulative tariffs as high as 45%, including a 10% increase imposed in February 2025. Similarly, imports from Canada and Mexico face 25% tariffs. These measures have particularly affected items like vape cartridges, batteries, and specialized packaging materials, which are difficult to source domestically at competitive prices. As a result, many cannabis companies are passing these increased costs down the supply chain to consumer

The financial burden of these tariffs is substantial. Analysts estimate that most cannabis businesses lack the margin flexibility to absorb a 10%-15% cost increase. This has led to higher retail prices for products like pre-rolls and vaporizers, potentially pushing consumers toward cheaper, unregulated black-market alternatives. Such a shift raises concerns about product safety and could undermine the legal market’s growth.

Additionally, the tariffs have caused stock prices of major cannabis companies like Tilray Brands and Canopy Growth to decline by 5%-10%, reflecting investor concerns over profitability.Smaller businesses, already constrained by high taxes and limited banking access, are particularly vulnerable to these economic pressures.

Efforts to mitigate tariff-related expenses include exploring alternative manufacturing locations in countries like Malaysia or India. However, transitioning production is complex and time-consuming due to logistical hurdles and regulatory compliance requirements. Domestic production is another option but often comes with higher costs and limited capacity.

RELATED: How To Be Discreet When Using Weed

Packaging regulations in many states exacerbate the situation by requiring child-resistant designs, further limiting affordable domestic alternatives. Some companies are exploring sustainable packaging solutions as a long-term strategy to reduce dependence on volatile international markets.

The ongoing trade tensions show no signs of easing under Trump’s administration, leaving cannabis businesses with little choice but to adapt quickly. Strategies such as diversifying suppliers, investing in automation, and innovating with local materials may help companies weather the storm. However, without significant policy shifts or financial support mechanisms, the industry faces a challenging road ahead.



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clothes

The Best Tips To Update Your Wardrobe

Published

13 hours ago

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April 3, 2025

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Spring is about renewal and beauty – so why not use this time to refresh your look and wardrobe?

Winter is behind us and temperatures rising. It is time to move from heavier winter clothing to lighter, warmer-weather pieces. And maybe adding some brighter colors and lighter fabrics. But what about a refresh of your look also? While it is hard to pinpoint an exact number, a significant portion of people according to retail research, feel they need new clothes and are actively updating their wardrobes. But do you need to have to look for you? Her are the best tips to update your wardrobe.

RELATED: Tips To Develop A Better Morning Routine

We asked Harmony Arnold, an image consultant and wardrobe stylist with over two decades of experience enhancing personal and professional image, what do when looking into your closet.  With an extensive background in costume design for film, theatre, commercial advertising, and emerging mediums like VR, Harmony brings a nuanced understanding of how visual storytelling influences perception and leadership. Arnold works with executives, public figures, tech and creative professionals.

The Best Tips To Update Your Wardrobe - Harmony Arnold

Take a Hard Look at Your Go-To’s

We all have a uniform—did you know most people wear only 10% of their wardrobe on repeat? It’s time for a spring-clean refresh! Keep what makes you feel confident, retire the worn-out pieces, and swap in elevated essentials that work for you. For men, that might mean reassessing your favorite jeans and tees—are they still in great shape, or are they past their prime? Upgrade to well-fitting denim, fresh button-downs, and structured casualwear that feels effortlessly put together.

Make Sure It Fits Like a Dream

Even the best clothes fall flat if they don’t fit just right. Tailoring is your secret weapon, whether it’s hemming your trousers, wearing a blazer, or making sure your shirts skim—not cling to—your frame. A fitted (not tight) Oxford shirt, properly tapered chinos, and a blazer that defines your shoulders will instantly elevate your style and get you noticed. 

Invest in Forever Pieces

Think of your wardrobe as a curated collection—fewer, better pieces make getting dressed effortless. For men, this means a great pair of dark denim, a versatile, well-tailored blazer, and crisp white or neutral button-ups with a proper hemline. A well-made leather sneaker or a classic loafer can seamlessly take you from casual outings to business casual settings.

RELATED: The Science Behind Why Music Sounds So Much Better When You’re High

Lighten Up & Layer Like a Pro

Say goodbye to heavy winter fabrics and hello to easy-breezy layers! Swap out your wool suits for lightweight cotton or linen versions. A lightweight jacket or an unstructured blazer is a great way to add polish without overheating. Looking to refresh your palette? Soft blues, sage greens, and light neutrals are easy ways to bring a seasonal update without straying too far from what you grab in the fall and winter seasons. 

Accessorize Like You Mean It

Nothing transforms a look faster than the right accessories. Swap out your wintery dark leather belt and shoes for lighter tans or soft suedes. Consider a woven belt for a relaxed but polished feel. A statement watch, an upgraded pair of sunglasses, or even a well-chosen pocket square can bring personality to your look without going over the top. (Hint: Accessories are also the easiest way to dip into a new vibe without a complete wardrobe overhaul!).



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