The vaping industry is undergoing significant changes in 2025, with new restrictions that are reshaping how therapeutic vaping devices look and are packaged. The days of sleek designs and vibrant colors are gone, making way for plain, clinical aesthetics. These updates, outlined in the Medical Device Standards Order (MDSO), aim to ensure safety, compliance, and a clear distinction from recreational products. Let’s unpack what these changes mean for the vaping landscape.
1. Say Goodbye to Flashy Designs
Therapeutic vaping devices are now required to adopt a minimalist, no-frills appearance. Think "medical-grade" instead of "modern gadget."
- Colour Restrictions: Devices must be primarily matte white or matte grey, with no more than three matte shades (including text). Any extra colors? They’re only allowed on internal parts that stay hidden when the device is fully assembled. No more bold hues or eye-catching patterns—this is the era of plain.
- Information Display: All text must be in English, durable, and legible. It must contrast with the device’s base color and stick to matte grey or matte black. The only exception? Specific warning symbols like hazard signs, which may use colors like yellow or red.
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Banned Features: Devices are prohibited from including:
- - Promotional logos or statements
- - Heat-sensitive inks or elements that change over time
- - Scratchable surfaces or removable tabs
2. Packaging Goes Bare-Bones
If you’re expecting vibrant, glossy packaging, think again. The new rules enforce pharmaceutical-like packaging to emphasize safety and medical use.
- Colour Restrictions: Packaging must be white with text in matte grey or matte black, except for mandatory warning labels requiring specific colors.
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Mandatory Warnings: Packaging must include prominent, bold warnings such as:
- - “KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.”
- - “RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION. REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME SIZE AND TYPE BATTERY.”
- - “WARNING CONTAINS BUTTON OR COIN BATTERY. HAZARDOUS IF SWALLOWED – SEE INSTRUCTIONS” (if applicable).
- Prohibited Elements: Forget about promotional logos, fold-out panels, or packaging tricks like scratchable surfaces. The focus is purely on function and compliance.
3. No Fun Names Allowed
The names of therapeutic vaping devices must now be clinical and to the point. Here’s what’s off the table:
- - No health-related claims like “healing,” “natural,” or “organic”
- - No names that might appeal to youth or suggest safety
- - No references to food, drinks, or cosmetics
- - No over-the-top branding or playful product names
4. Labels That Mean Business
Forget decorative labeling. The updated standards demand clear, functional labels and instructions that leave no room for ambiguity:
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Labels Must Include:
- - Sponsor’s name and device details
- - Batch/serial number
- - Essential warnings (e.g., battery hazards)
- - Text in matte grey, matte black, or approved warning colors
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Instruction Manuals (IFU):
- - Comprehensive guides on assembly, usage, cleaning, and storage
- - Clear details for battery replacement and disposal
- - Manufacturer and sponsor information
5. Why This All Matters
The shift to plain designs and strict packaging rules isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about redefining how these devices are perceived. By stripping away flashy designs and promotional elements, the new standards reinforce their role as therapeutic tools, not lifestyle products. For the industry, compliance isn’t optional—it’s the only way forward. For consumers, these changes bring added clarity and reassurance about safety and intended use.
So, as 2025 unfolds, prepare to see therapeutic vaping devices in a whole new (and very matte) light. The future is plain, but it’s designed with purpose.