Brussels: Belgium's health minister, Frank Vandenbroucke, on Wednesday urged the European Union to tighten regulations on vaping, warning of growing health risks and rising use among young people. Speaking to Belga during a visit by EU Commissioner Michael McGrath to Sciensano in Brussels, Vandenbroucke described vaping as an 'epidemic' and accused the industry of targeting youth.

According to Anadolu Agency, Vandenbroucke highlighted that e-cigarettes contain 'thousands of ingredients,' including metals and chemical compounds formed when heated, which may pose health risks. He called for stricter EU-wide controls on substances used in vapes and a ban on disposable e-cigarettes across the bloc, noting that such a ban is already in place in Belgium. Vandenbroucke also urged limits on flavors, similar to rules in the Netherlands that allow only tobacco flavor.

McGrath noted the significant scale of the problem and emphasized the need for stronger cooperation across Europe. After observing laboratory tests at Sciensano, he advocated for the EU to better utilize existing research and improve coordination among national authorities. The European Commission is expected to propose updated market surveillance rules later this year.