Do E Liquids Expire? Your Guide To E-Liquid Safety
28/08/2017
By
Jonny Stevenson
E-liquid is the blend of various flavour concentrates that is vaped in electronic cigarettes. It typically consists of propylene glycol, nicotine, vegetable glycerine, and flavoured concentrates. Many individuals turn to electronic cigarettes as a means to quit smoking traditional tobacco products like cigarettes or cigars.
Lately, a frequently asked question among e-cigarette users concerns the expiration of E Liquid. Do e-liquids expire? It’s important to understand that e-liquid does indeed have a shelf life. To ensure your safety, experts recommend checking the expiration date indicated on the bottle.
To learn more about how to determine the expiry of your e-liquid and how to preserve its quality for as long as possible, continue reading below.
How Can I Tell If My E-Liquid Has Expired?
The expiration date of e-liquid is primarily determined by the lifespan of its key components: VG (vegetable glycerin), PG (propylene glycol), and nicotine. Generally, e-liquid can remain viable for approximately one to two years.
Several indicators can help you discern whether your e-liquid has gone bad. Consider the following tips:
Many different flavorings are used in e-liquid, and some of these flavorings might cause the e-liquid to deteriorate sooner.
Some e-liquids can develop sediment if left undisturbed for a while. If you neglect to mix the liquid by shaking it, your e-liquid may spoil. However, this is a rare occurrence.
If your e-liquid emits an unpleasant odour or displays unusual discolouration, it’s likely gone bad, especially if it’s been stored for over a year.
Is your E-Liquid Changing Colours?
E-liquids typically undergo a minor colour change over time. However, if the colour alteration is significant, it suggests that your e-liquid has expired. We recommend avoiding the use of e-liquids that exhibit a pronounced colour shift.
E-liquid discolouration is primarily attributed to a natural chemical reaction called oxidation. Nicotine, a component of e-liquid, is highly reactive and can react with other ingredients or be influenced by factors like exposure to air, heat, or light.
Oxidation, though a natural process, does not significantly affect the overall vaping experience or flavour. Therefore, e-liquid remains usable even after this chemical reaction occurs. You should only be concerned if a liquid that is usually a golden colour has ended up a dark brown.
How to Determine E-Liquid Thickness?
E-liquid viscosity depends on the ratio of PG and VG in the mixture. If the e-liquid has a higher VG content, it will be thicker, whereas lower PG content results in a thinner consistency.
If you notice sediment settling at the bottom of your e-liquid after a short period, make sure to thoroughly mix it before use. Failure to fully blend an eliquid may cause a significant change in flavour.
Proper E-Liquid Storage
To extend the shelf life of your e-liquid, store it carefully by shielding it from light and high temperatures. Some companies offer e-liquids in tinted glass bottles to protect against light and heat exposure.
For maximum preservation, consider storing your e-liquids in a cool, dry, and dark place.
In conclusion, we recommend not using e-liquids past their expiry date, as they do have a limited shelf life. To ensure safety, always verify the expiration date on the bottle and review the crucial factors discussed above before using e-liquids.
Author
Jonny has over 10 years experience in the vaping industry. Key area of expertise are Mixology, Regulatory and Technology. Being one of the new inal members of the team, makes Jonny a fountain of knowledge when it comes to vaping.
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