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E-liquids when vaporized create formaldehyde, a human carcinogen

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Research Pallav Pokhrel conducted at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center found that when two main ingredients found in e-cigarette or electronic smoking device or vaping liquids are vaporized, the ingredients convert into formaldehyde which is a known human carcinogen. The two ingredients are propylene glycol with vegetable glycerin. Formaldehyde is a gas that’s used in embalming fluid and building materials.

It seems like it becomes dangerous when the E-liquid is heated at a high temperature, with high voltage, and when the E-liquid is dripped directly to the heating coil,” he said.

Pokhrel also said e-liquids also consist of small amounts of heavy metals. The contaminants differ from liquid to liquid. He calls that “the scary part” because it’s not known how inhaling heavy metals may be affecting consumers. E-liquids also hold varying doses of nicotine.

“When flavorings are used in food that we eat, most of them are harmless, but we don’t know what happens if we breathe them,” Pokhrel said.

GASP comment: For example, we eat flour, but when breathed in is unhealthful.

Read more in Hawaii News Now.