The “Big Puff” Loophole in UK Vape Laws Explained

May 8, 2025

The UK’s crackdown on disposable vapes has been long-awaited, but a fresh twist is making headlines — and it’s all about something called the “Big Puff” loophole. If you vape or work in the industry, this matters. Here's what’s going on, why oversized vapes might sneak through the ban, and why public health voices are sounding the alarm.

What is the “Big Puff” loophole?

The term “Big Puff” refers to ultra-high-capacity disposable vapes that offer thousands of puffs — sometimes 6,000 or more. These devices are often marketed for their long life, eye-catching designs, and potent hits.

Here’s the catch: the current wording in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill 2025 doesn’t specifically restrict the size or puff count of disposables. Instead, it focuses on their environmental impact and targeting of underage users. That leaves a grey area. Some oversized products may technically remain legal — and some brands are already positioning to take advantage.

Why this matters: loophole vs. intention

The UK government’s original intent was clear: ban single-use vapes to protect youth and reduce plastic waste. But legal experts and public health watchdogs say the current draft bill may allow manufacturers to rebrand or repackage disposables in a way that skirts the ban.

What experts are saying

“It’s a potential disaster,” says a senior researcher from the Royal College of Physicians. “Unless puff limits and tank capacities are nailed down, the next generation of disposables could be even more harmful.”

Retailers are equally frustrated. Some say big players in the vape industry are lobbying behind the scenes to protect high-margin, high-puff devices — even as independent shops brace for product shortages and confusion.

What oversized vapes are we talking about?

You might have seen them already: bulky disposables with 10ml+ tanks, USB-C charging ports, and promises of 5,000+ puffs. These devices blur the line between disposables and pod systems, which makes them harder to regulate under current law.

Many of these products are made to look like refillable devices — even though they’re meant to be thrown away. It’s a packaging and labeling game, and it's working.

The loophole in numbers

Legal limit: 2ml e-liquid capacity for disposables (currently enforced)
Illegal devices found in UK raids: 3,000 to 10,000+ puffs per device
Estimated “Big Puff” products in circulation: Over 1.5 million units as of early 2025

What happens next?

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is still under review in Parliament. Amendments are likely, and vape shop owners, NHS quit-smoking advisors, and advocacy groups are pushing for stricter, clearer language to close this loophole before it becomes law.

In the meantime, some UK retailers are being advised to avoid stocking any device above 2ml capacity or 600 puffs — even if suppliers say it’s legal.

What it means for you

If you’re a vaper, this could affect which devices you’ll be able to buy in the near future. Don’t be surprised if your favorite high-capacity disposable disappears — or gets rebranded with a pod system look and a refillable twist.

And if you’re vaping to quit smoking, don’t worry — refillable kits, nic salt e-liquids, and pod systems are here to stay and offer even better long-term value and control over your experience.

How to stay compliant and informed

Stick to TPD-compliant vapes (2ml max)
Buy from reputable UK vape shops
Check for legal labelling and packaging (especially on puff count and tank size)
Avoid buying bulk or oversized disposables online — many are illegal imports

Final thoughts

The Big Puff loophole might sound like a meme, but it’s a real regulatory gap with real consequences. Whether you're a vaper, retailer, or just someone watching from the sidelines — now’s the time to pay attention to how this bill evolves. Because the future of vaping in the UK may be shaped not just by what gets banned… but by what doesn’t.

Ready to upgrade from disposables?

Check out our beginner-friendly refillable vape kits at Vape Lounge UK — better value, better flavour, and fully TPD-compliant. Let’s keep it legal and level up your vape game.