Does Vape Juice Expire? Understanding E-Liquid Shelf Life

It goes without saying that e-liquid, commonly referred to as vape juice, is a crucial component of vaping. However, many people wonder how long it lasts before going bad. In this article, we will cover questions about the lifespan of vape juice, how to tell if it has expired, and the best ways to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

Components of E-Liquid

E-liquids are composed of several key ingredients:

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): This liquid is thick, sweet, and odourless. It's responsible for producing vapour clouds.
• Propylene Glycol (PG): This thin, odourless petroleum by-product delivers a throat hit.
• Flavour Concentrates: E-juice gets its unique flavour from either artificial or naturally derived ingredients.
• Nicotine: This is an optional ingredient typically found in strengths ranging from 0mg (nicotine-free) to 20mg in the UK.

Read More: Understanding PG vs VG in E-Liquids

How Long Does E-Liquid Last?

Like food products, e-liquids also have best-before dates that indicate how long the vape juice will maintain its optimal quality. When stored under ideal conditions, e-liquids can have a shelf life of around 2 years.

Factors Influencing E-Liquid Lifespan

Storage Conditions

Exposure to heat, light, and air can significantly reduce the shelf life of e-liquids. Nicotine and flavourings can degrade quickly due to heat, while compounds in the e-liquid can break down when exposed to light, especially UV light. Oxygen in the air can also oxidize nicotine, ultimately affecting the quality and strength of the e-liquid. Storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture can help extend their shelf life. Exposure to light, heat, and air can cause flavours to degrade and reduce nicotine content, leading to a shorter lifespan.

Usage

The speed of e-liquid consumption depends on the frequency of vaping, individual consumption habits, and the type of vape kit used, which can impact the overall lifespan of a bottle.

Certain signs indicate your vape juice has expired and should not be used. These signs include:

1. Change in smell: E-liquid should have a pleasant smell before and after it's vaporised. It may have gone bad if it has an unusual and unpleasant odour.
2. Separation: It's normal for the ingredients in e-liquid to separate over time. A gentle shake can fix the problem. But if the ingredients remain separated, it may indicate that your e-liquid has expired.
3. Discolouration: Any colour changes can indicate that your e-liquid has gone bad. While shaking may help, it's best to avoid using a pod that appears an unusual or unexpected colour. 

To prolong the lifespan of your e-liquid, it is recommended to store it in a cool and dark place, away from sources of heat and sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, in particular, can harm the ingredients in the e-liquid. It is also important to keep the bottles tightly sealed when not in use to prevent air exposure.

All of our Vuse eLiquids are available in pods or bottles that are specifically designed for our range devices*. As part of our commitment to quality, our cartridges and pods are individually packed and sealed. 

If you want to check any pods or cartridges, look for the serial number printed in black on the back. This serial number contains a series of numbers that indicate when the e-liquid was produced, so you can easily determine whether the pod is still safe to use. 

If you're looking for a hassle-free way to purchase our eLiquids, consider subscribing to Vuse. You'll save time and money, with your order sent directly to your doorstep each month at no additional cost.

*Only applicable for closed systems
*These products are not risk-free and contain nicotine, an addictive substance.