The Belgian Superior Health Council (a scientific advisory board for the Government) acknowledged that vaping is less harmful than smoking and recommends smokers to switch to vaping. The recommendation to the Government was published last Tuesday. The report states that vaping “is a better alternative than smoking and can be used as a smoking cessation aid.”

The Superior Health Council says it has emphasised “that phasing out the use of traditional tobacco cigarettes must remain an absolute priority.”

The downside is that the Council continues to spread fear over a potential but as yet unproven link between flavours and a negative impact on health.

It says there should be a freeze on the current e-liquid market and not allow any new ingredients. This should be combined with an investigation of the effects of inhalation of e-liquids.

Michael Landl, Director of the global vaping advocacy group World Vapers’ Alliance, commented: “It is great that the Council acknowledges the benefits of vaping and its role in helping smokers quit. Vaping is proven to be one of the most successful smoking cessation methods. Now the Minister of Health, Frank Vandenbroucke, needs to follow their lead.

“Unfortunately, the Council seems to miss the most important point about flavours: they are essential for vapers and smokers who want to switch. Obviously, we need safety and quality controls, but we must stay away from banning flavours generally. This would push thousands of vapers back to smoking or the black market. Hence, it would damage public health instead of improving it.”

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