Best Coffee Shops in Des Moines,Iowa

A Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Des Moines

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Seattle might have the third most coffee shops per capita out of all the cities in the U.S., but Iowa can hold its own when it comes to great coffee shops with excellent atmosphere.

In this little city of Des Moines, IA, we have several delicious drive-through and sit-down coffee shops that include breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Are you tired of Starbucks and looking for coffee shops that are a little more interesting to stop by and grab a cup of coffee? By the way, we are not saying Starbucks isn’t amazing.  We have several team members that prefer Starbucks over all other places. :).

Let’s check out the best local coffee shops in Des Moines, Iowa and the surrounding area.

#1 Smokey Row Coffee

Smokey Row Coffee Shop

Smokey Row Coffee Shop

155 Hickman Rd. Waukee, IA

If you are looking for a rustic diner style that provides coffee and ice cream, check out Smokey Row. They offer shakes, lunch, and dinner. Their local featuring fresh roasted coffee is what they are known for.

This is a great place to grab a simple breakfast, lunch, or a snack to accompany your coffee. They even have some gluten-free options if that’s your style!

Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure

Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure Coffee Shop

Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure Coffee Shop

2723 Ingersoll Ave. Des Moines, IA

Looking for an awesome coffee shop that is delicious and filled with local art- offers in-house roasting and comes through with all-day breakfast in a cozy environment. Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure Coffee Shop is known for having friendly staff and yummy drinks. Overall this is a great coffee shop to stop by.

Mars Café

Mars Cafe best coffee shop

Mars Cafe best coffee shop

2318 University Ave. Des Moines, IA

If you’re into space and a more modern feel, this is the coffee shop for you. Space themed artisanal coffee shop that offers all the goodies panini, soup, wine and beer to allow you to let loose and unwind. This place is great for business meetings or even just grabbing a cup of coffee.

Twisted Bean

Twisted Bean coffee shop

Twisted Bean coffee shop

4505 Merle Hey Rd. Des Moines, IA

A cute little coffee shop with friendly service and refreshing environment. If you are looking for a quiet study place or to meet up with people, this is a great local coffee shop to check out.

Caribou Coffee

Caribou Coffee shop

Best Coffee Shop

3220 Ingersoll Ave. Des Moines, IA

If you are into larger chains that serve signature drinks, mochas, lattes, and coffee this is the place to go. They offer great seating inside to meet and gather for work or just to drink some coffee.

Grounds for Celebration

Grounds for Celebration Best Coffee Shop

Grounds for Celebration Coffee Shop

2709 Beaverdale Ave, Des Moines, IA

Want fresh roasted coffee, tea, pastelis, gelato, and lunch this is your go too coffee shop. This coffee shop is known for combining wonderful coffee, tea, and food with a comfortable environment. Grounds for Celebration even roasts onsite at there Beaverdale location.

Friedrichs Coffee

Friedrichs Coffee Shop

Friedrichs Coffee Shop

West Des Moines, IA

If you are looking for a good vibe and a nice coffee shop to study, get work done or just hang out with friends this is the coffee shop for you. They sell lots of different coffee and yummy bites to eat.

Scooter’s Coffee

Scooter’s Coffee Shop

Scooter Coffee Shop

99 University Ave. Des Moines, IA

Small but functional we like to say. Scooters is an effective drive-thru chain that serves espresso and other coffee drinks. Scooter’s also servers’ delicious smoothies and pastries. This coffee shop would not be you go to place if you are looking to gather inside. If you are needing a coffee on the go, they are your go to speedy coffee shop.

Coffee Shops in Des Moines, Iowa: Which Is Your #1 New Favorite?

When it comes to coffee everyone has their own opinion on what the best is. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a nice relaxing breakfast and a hot cup of coffee, or you prefer to grab an Americano on your way to work, there are coffee shops for everyone in Des Moines.

If you are struggling to stop smoking, visit Central Iowa Vapors near you.

  • #Coffee Shops
Best Vape Shop in Des Moines

Best Vape Shop in Des Moines, Iowa

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Central Iowa Vapors was voted best vape shop year after year by the CITYVIEW voters. None of this would have been possible without our team, our customers and the industry. Our deep passion fuels our work and guides what we do. Our passion and dedication reaches far out into our diverse community and BEYOND the walls our stores. We want to give a big thank you to all the voters.

It’s voting time for 2023 and we would greatly appreciate your vote. Cast your vote prior to November 14, 2022 by visiting CITYVIEW, category DSM Best Vape Shop #84!

Best of Des Moines!

Vote Central Iowa Vapors Best Vape Shop in DSM. Voting Ends November 14, 2022

As a company our goal is to be Iowa’s most reputable and authentic vape shop and hemp retailer. Central Iowa Vapors takes pride in uploading high standards to provide value in everything that has our involvement. As a company we are always exploring and embracing opportunities through  science and technology. This allows us to grow and be proud of what we’ve built as a team. If you’re an adult smoker, chewer or struggle with stress, maybe even sleep we invite you to come visit Central Iowa Vapors. Our vape shops offer a wide range of products from electronic cigarettes, disposables, e-liquids, devices, CBD and Hemp Derived THC edibles, tinctures and topicals leaving you with RE-LEAF.

Feel free to browse our new arrivals and stop in. You will be greeted by a knowledge employees that will help guide you through your entire purchase. Be ready to expect a welcoming environment with lots of smiles. See you soon and always remember… “It’s not smoke, it’s vapor”!

Legal THC in Iowa

IS D9 THC LEGAL IN IOWA?

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Yes! In 2021 consumable hemp became legal in the state of Iowa – CBD and Hemp Derived THC products are now available at all Central Iowa Vapors locations!

Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products are offered at a concentration of no more than 0.3% by dry weight.

Can You Buy Delta 9 THC in Iowa?

Yes! Adults 21 years or older can purchase Hemp Derived THC products in Iowa. Central Iowa Vapors offers a quality selection of products that creates impactful results. If you do not live local, no worries! Browse our Hemp Collection and we will ship it right to your doorstep.

At Central Iowa Vapors, all of our products meet and exceed federal and state guidelines, allowing us to offer Federal Legal THC that is less than 0.3 percent THC in person and online. We have several different variations of hemp-derived products and even some without THC.

We offer THC-P, Delta 9, CBN, CBG, CBD. Some of our CBG and CBD products contain NO THC for those that do not need it. Most customers have found the THC-P and Delta 9 stains to be their go to’s.

This may sound confusing to begin with but do not worry!

To learn more we recommend stopping into a Central Iowa Vapors near you. One of our knowledgeable employees will walk you through our Hemp / CBD selection which includes candies, gummies, chocolates, popcorn, tinctures and lotions. The employee will explain the pros and cons and allow you to select the best product that fits your individual needs.

At Central Iowa Vapors our goal is to help improve adults wellness through the gift of the hemp plant. We are not looking to sell the trendiest products, we want to sell you what will work and be effective for your needs. You can trust that Central Iowa Vapors only offers quality products that produces quality results.

HEMP & CBD FAQ BELOW:

Other Terms that define CBD:

Hemp, Hemp Extracts, Consumable Hemp, Industrial Hemp, Consumable Hemp, CBD with concentration less than 0.3% by dry weight.

Is a medical Card Needed?

  • A medical card is NOT required for the purchase of consumable hemp products in Iowa.
  • Retailers like Central Iowa Vapors must be licensed with – Iowa Department of Inspections & Appeals and follow strict regulations, to retail consumable hemp THC products to adults 21+.

What is “Hemp” ?

Consumable Hemp product is food, beverages and supplements that contains industrial hemp or hemp derived cannabinoids (CBD). These products are no more than 0.3 percent concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Do not underestimate the lower THC percentage. After all Hemp is the super sister to the “marijuana” plant.

Hemp is a specific variety of sativa. People have grown hemp for years, using it to make rope, clothes, sails, food, and much more. Industrial hemp has an equally long history in the United States – Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the country, grew it himself.

Hemp plants contain THC but at lower levels. However, certain types of processed hemp, such as tinctures, gummies, or capsules, can still have euphoric effects.

What is the difference between Hemp and Marijuana

Hemp plants and marijuana plants are both the same species. Legally, hemp is defined as a cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3 percent THC, while Marijuana is a cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3 percent THC. CBD can be derived from both hemp and Marijuana plants.

Consider hemp the super sister to the Marijuana plant. It’s all still THC, but different variants can be more or less effective. Consider delta 9 THC the “regular form” of THC. Manufactures must use hemp plants and stay under 0.3% by dry weight if they are conforming to federal regulations.

What’s the Difference Between Delta 8 and Delta-9?

Some may think that Delta 8 and Delta 9 are the same legal THC, but this is not true. Delta 8 and Delta 9 are both forms of THC however, they offer their own unique effects.

Both compounds share the same chemical makeup, but they have a slight difference in molecular structure. Delta 8 Legal THC has a double bond located on the eighth carbon chain, and Delta 9 Legal THC has a double bond located on the ninth carbon chain.

If you aren’t a scientist or chemist, you may be thinking – I do not understand. Where the chemical bond is located affects how your body responds to the cannabinoid. Delta 8 has been known to be less potent with different effects compared to Delta 9.

After Consumption:

After consuming any other form of THC, you cannot operate a vehicle or heavy machinery.

We highly recommend starting small and wait for the effects to arise. Smaller doses allow for the edge to be lifted while still being yourself! Avoiding this advice may lead you to feel overwhelmed. If you think you may be in this situation, no worries. To improve your experience, we recommend listening to calming music, watching a movie, or close your eyes and take a nap. For additional questions or to learn more please call 515-255-0004 or email [email protected].

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice or reliable statements of the status of any laws. Any information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to cause you to buy or not buy any of our products. The laws are different state to state and are constantly evolving. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

Vape Shop

Vape Shop Product Categories

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Are you looking to quit smoking and start vaping, and are overwhelmed by all the different categories of a vape shop. If this is you, you’re not alone. There are a lot of vape shop products to choose from. That is why we are here to help you!

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at some of the most popular products that you’re more likely to see at a vape shop and what they’re for. Think of it as a rough guide to the average vape store!

Are you ready to learn more about what you’ll find in a vape shop? Let’s read on…

Disposables and Starter Kits

Disposable Nicotine Devices and Starter Kits

First off, we’ve got the devices that you’ll probably be most interested in as a new vaper. These products are easy to use and give you a great taste of what vaping can offer you.

Disposable nicotine devices are small vapes that you can use for a day or two and then dispose of it. This is an easy way to see if you like vaping. They’ll come with a set puff count ranging from 2500 puff to 5000 puff and different nicotine contents ranging from 0mg, 25mg and 50mg. In terms of looks, some will look like cigarettes, called cigalikes, and others will have a more original look.

While cigalikes may have been the very first type of vape, starter kits are a better option for those who want to switch away from smoking cigarettes for good. These consist of a great starter vape, like the Innokin Endura T22 Pro, a charging cable, a spare coil, and everything else that you need to start vaping, except for the e-liquid.

If you are in the market for a quality disposable that is reliable, give Hyve Disposables a try.

E-liquids

A Range of E-liquids

That brings us to the topic of e-liquids, aka vape juice. At most vape shops, there will be a big selection of different e-liquid flavors for you to choose from.

However, flavor isn’t the only factor that you need to consider. Another important factor is whether the liquid is high-PG, high-VG, or 50-50.

If you’re looking to blow the biggest clouds, a liquid that is higher in VG (vegetable glycerin) is what you need. High-VG liquid is also key for sub-ohm vaping, where you use a coil with a resistance of less than an Ohm.

For a better throat hit that’s more similar to smoking a cigarette, consider a high-PG (propylene glycol) e-liquid.

Its nicotine content will also be an important factor to consider. If you’re coming off a 20-a-day smoking habit, a higher nicotine content like 12 or 18mg/ml will be best, while if you’re only a casual smoker, a 3-6mg/ml nicotine content will be fine. This nicotine can be either salt nicotine or freebase, each of which offers different benefits and experiences.

Pod Systems

Pod Systems

If you want the convenience of a small size but don’t want to sacrifice taste and variety, then a pod system is a great option. One of the most popular pod systems is the Juul, but if you don’t want to throw away a pod after every use, you don’t have to. Devices like the Vaporesso Xros or Uwell Caliburn can be refilled, which will save you lots of money in the long run.

In general, pod systems are compact, flavorful, and great for everyday vaping.

Box Mods

Box Mods

If you want the most powerful vape that you can get, you’ll need to buy a box mod. Devices like the Geekvape Aegis T200 and Vaporesso Gen 200 are great examples of what box mods are capable of.

Typically all kits come with a sub-ohm coil and can feature wattages of up to a few hundred watts. These coils, outputs, and a high-VG liquid all come together to produce massive vapor production and clouds. While they’re more expensive than other systems, they also offer the best flavor experience.

Tank & Coils

Tanks and Coils

Your tank is one of the most important parts of your setup. It holds the vape e-liquid and connects the battery to the mouthpiece. Inside each tank, you’ll find a coil.

Coils absorb the vape e-liquid that you’re using and then heats up, producing the vapor. However, they don’t last forever. After a while, usually around two weeks of steady use, the coil will begin to lose its ability to carry flavor and may start to taste muted or burnt. If you are unsure about how to replace your coil or pod, bring your device into Central Iowa Vapors and our employees will show you how it’s done.

While you can run coils into the ground, it’s not a enjoyable experience. We recommend changing the coils on your vape as soon as you notice the flavor is becoming muted or it taste burnt. Most modern systems, changing coils is very easy, and if your device uses a popular coil type, most vape shops will offer a multipack of coils.

Coils & Pods

At Central Iowa Vapors, we carry coils and pods for all systems that we sell. Most tanks and pod systems are only compatible with their own coils and pods. For instance, only Vaporesso Zero Pods will work in the Vaporesso Zero. This device is not compatible with any other pods. Another example are the HorizonTech Falcon series tanks – these tanks can only use HorizonTech Falcon coils. There are some tanks that are compatible with other coils, just ask any of our Central Iowa Vapors employees for help with this.

One example is the SMOK Baby Beast tank. This tank can utilize SMOK Baby Beast coils, Vaporesso GT and QF coils, GeekVape SuperMesh coils, and a few more options. Even though some tanks are compatible with other coils, it is a good idea to stick with the coil that was made for your tank. Most replacement coil and pod packs come in 2, 3, or 5 packs. Buying coils or pods in packs is cost effective and ensures you have back up replacements. We do recommend buying replacement coils and pods in packs.

Battery & Charger

Batteries & Chargers

Depending on the mod that you buy, you may need to get some batteries, too. While some vapes, especially entry-level ones, come with an integrated battery, box mods will normally need one or two 18650 external batteries.

You should make sure that you only ever buy high-quality, ACELL batteries, as low-quality ones can be a safety hazard. To make sure that you get the right batteries for your mod, we’d recommend speaking to a team member at the vape shop.

Product Categories of a Vape Shop: Explained

Vape Shop

Inside Central Iowa Vapors on Hickman in Clive, Iowa.

While the large number of different product categories of a vape shop may seem overwhelming at first, we hope that you better understand what to look for now. If you’d like to take a look at a wide range of different products online, take a look around our site! When you are ready please stop in and visit a store near you. Central Iowa Vapors is committed to building relationships with our clients and neighbors. We want you to feel comfortable and welcome in our shop. To ensure you have the best experience.

Central Iowa Vapors was voted best vape shop in Des Moines, Iowa by the voters of City View. Stop in and visit a Central Iowa Vapors near you.

If you’ve got any questions or would like to learn more about a certain product or products, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us by calling 515-255-0004 or email at [email protected].

 

Synthetic Nicotine

What is Synthetic Nicotine?

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You have likely heard by now that the vaping market has given us yet another term to learn: synthetic nicotine. Synthetic nicotine, also known as tobacco-free nicotine, is exactly what it sounds like: nicotine made using synthetic means, which contains zero traces of the tobacco plant, and is not in any way derived from tobacco.

Several customers have asked… Is synthetic nicotine better? How is it made? Does it satisfy cravings just as effectively as traditional tobacco-derived nicotine? As a business we cannot make any health claims. What we can tell you is the FDA is working to regulate tobacco products, containing nicotine from any source. Now manufacturers, distributors, importers and retailers of tobacco products containing synthetic nicotine must follow all rules associated with tobacco. That means they can’t sell these products to people under 21, or market them as low-risk tobacco products without authorization. They also cannot distribute free samples of these products.

What is Synthetic Nicotine Made of?

Synthetic nicotine is created in a laboratory in order to completely mimic the nicotine alkaloid found in the tobacco plant without using any tobacco derivatives. Advanced molecular technology allows chemists to simply rearrange molecules found in existing plant compounds in order to create a pure nicotine that’s identical to that which we’re already used to in the tobacco plant. The base ingredients for this synthesized process can differ depending on the manufacturer. It is very important that adult consumers shop with a reputable retailers that sources quality products with quality ingredients.

Synthetic Nicotine Products

Synthetic nicotine is becoming more and more popular right now, and more and more companies are therefore using it. A lot of very well-known vaping brands have either switched over completely to tobacco-free nicotine, or they’ve created alternative lines of their most popular products with this form of nicotine instead of that which comes from tobacco.Synthetic Nicotine: E-liquids made with synthetic nicotine are becoming extremely popular, and are easier to find than ever before in both bottled form and in disposables. One can find synthetic versions of both freebase nicotine and salt-based nicotine in order to continue enjoying the type of nicotine that they prefer.

Synthetic Nicotine Pouches: Synthetic nicotine pouches exist as an alternative nicotine delivery method for chewers and those who prefer not to vape. These discreet, travel-friendly pouches contain synthetic nicotine blended with other plant based ingredients, and allows the nicotine to absorb through the oral tissue when placed between the inner cheek and the gums.

Buy Synthetic Nicotine at Central Iowa Vapors

Synthetic nicotine has been around for years and is coming back around. Synthetic nicotine allows you to experience nicotine to satisfy daily cravings, without having to depend on the tobacco plant in any way. Make sure to check out our tobacco-free alternative, and explore the synthetic nicotine offered in-store and online.

Local vape Shop

What is a vape shop?

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I see you are curious about vaping. Maybe you’ve seen people walking around town with a disposable vape. Maybe you’re trying to quit smoking. Maybe you’ve just read one of the many news articles about vaping meteoric rise in popularity.

If you just google “vaping,” you’re likely to feel overwhelmed by the products and information that comes up. What you need is a vape shop. Not an anonymous online retailer or a corner shop that only offers cigarettes, JUUL and Vuse displays, but a responsible member of your community who wants to earn your repeat and business.

But what is a real vape shop? What can you expect when you arrive? Let’s keep reading to find out.

Beginner-Friendly Support

Getting started can feel overwhelming to begin. The vaping world contains a huge variety of products, and vaping lingo can seem like a different language.

Different terminology used: Pods, mods, salt nicotine, sub ohms…what does it all mean?

When you’re new to vaping, the cashier at the gas station is not going to be your best guide. Stores that don’t specialize in vapes at all tend not to have the expertise to help beginners find a comfortable start.

A good vape shop will provide friendly, educational service to all customers. They’ll provider a “local touch” that makes customers feel at ease and at home. It’s a community-oriented feeling that huge online retailers can’t come close to replicating.

Smoking Cessation Help

Are trying to quit smoking? Trust us, you’re not alone! At Central Iowa Vapors we have helped thousands of adults make the switch.

Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful single actions you can take to improve your health. The FDA identifies 93 harmful or potentially harmful chemicals in cigarettes. Smoking costs lifelong practitioners about a decade of their lifespan on average.

If you’re a smoker, chances are you don’t need to be told to quit. About 7 out of 10 smokers want to stop. Quitting is very difficult, with about 60-90% of attempts relapsing within one year.

If you want to quit smoking, vaping can be the light at the end of the tunnel. It provides nicotine while drastically reducing your exposure to carcinogens and dangerous chemicals. It also provides many of the important social and “ritual” benefits, such as the five-minute cigarette break, that many smokers take comfort in.

Quitting smoking has been a major driver of the vaping industry. The New Zealand Ministry of Health, in fact, officially recommends vaping as a harm-reduction method crucial to the country’s SmokeFree 2025 goal.

All of this means that vape shop employees deeply understand how important yet difficult quitting smoking can be. They have helped plenty of people make the switch, and they can help you, too.

Guidance Picking Quality Products

Sometimes even smokers who turn to vaping struggle. That’s because a few drags from the freebase nicotine can’t provide the immediate, concentrated nicotine dose cigarette smokers are used to.

These users often wind up with a sore throat, severely depleted pod trying to replicate the nicotine rush of cigarettes. Someone vaping nicotine salts, on the other hand, can get plenty of nicotine with a few pulls, satisfying their cravings.

What if you’re interested in a vaping experience with huge clouds of vapor and a strong, luxurious flavor?

In short, the perfect vaping experience is different for everyone. A high-quality vape shop is the best place to find your unique preferences and explore different ways to vape.

Employees can help you find the best and safest device for your needs, whether it’s a Hyve Disposable or an external vape mod. Vape e-liquid come in a wide variety of flavors, from fruity to minty to tobacco-imitating. Rest assured we will ensure you leave satisfied.

Of course, the best vape shops are always run by committed vapers. At Central Iowa Vapors, we only offer products that we have tested and would use ourselves.

We Are Your Local Vape Shop

Our mission is to help adults rid the use of combustible cigarettes. From accessibility to education, from health to safety, we’ve put effort into deserving our community’s trust and business. Stop into your local Vape Shop, Central Iowa Vapors! Where we have been voted best vape shop by the people.

Hyve Vapor Co

Popular Disposables

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“Join the Hyve or catch the BUZZ…”

 

Hyve Disposables are popular disposables due to the incredible taste and dependability factors. Hyve 2500 disposables are equipped with 1000mAh battery,  Hyve 4000 and 5000 disposables are equipped with 650mah battery and rechargeable, these are the top shelf premier disposables.

Hyve disposables come in a variety of incredible flavors such as Strawberry Peach, Pineapple Orange Lemonade Ice, Watermelon Lemonade, Cookies & Cream and Pineapple Mango Ice, just to name a few!

HYVE is a brand that is simply known for its quality. These reliable disposables boast an incredible capacity packing 2,500, 4,000 and 5,000 hits per device! The nicotine strengths available in the Hyve 2500, and 5,000 disposables are offered in 0%(0mg), 2.5% (25mg) and 5% (50mg) of salt nicotine. The Hyve 4000 disposables are available in 5.0% (50mg) of salt nicotine.

If you are an adult consumer looking to rid the use of combustible cigarettes, ask about Hyve disposables to help you on your journey towards a cigarette free life. Always remember, IT’S NOT SMOKE, IT’S VAPOR!

Hyve Disposable

Hyve disposables allows users to step down there nicotine intake one step at a time.

What are disposables great for? If you are an on the go adult smoker that enjoys nothing but convenience than this is the route for you. :)

Browse other popular disposables:

Hyve Original 2500, Hyve Original 4000, Hyve X Salish 2500, Hyve X Chubby 2500

Stop a Synthetic Nicotine Ban

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Language that would add synthetic nicotine to the FDA’s premarket authorization process may be included in the 2022 Omnibus Budget Bill. In no uncertain terms, this would be a near-immediate ban on vapor and smoke-free products containing synthetic nicotine (like nicotine pouches, toothpicks, etc.).

Please take a moment TODAY and send a message to your federal officials urging them to reject a ban on synthetic nicotine!

This is a must-pass budget bill which is even more urgent due to the inclusion of support for Ukraine.

US – Stop a Synthetic Nicotine Ban!

IOWANS SHOULD NOT USE BLACK MARKET THC OILS IN VAPING PRODUCTS

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Des Moines, IA (September 11, 2019) – Iowans who vape should not be adding black market THC oils to their vape systems, IFAST President Sarah Linden said today.

Results published in The New England Journal of Medicine on Friday found 84 percent of the patients who are suffering from respiratory symptoms self-reported inhaling a form of THC oil purchased on the black market. Researchers acknowledged the study was based on reports by patients who may be reluctant to report illicit drug use and the percentage of those who used THC oil is likely higher.

“If black market THC oil was being added to bottles of water and causing illness, federal officials wouldn’t advise the public to stop drinking water. Instead, they would investigate and report on exactly what was causing the illnesses,” Linden said. “It would be a public health tragedy if vapers returned to smoking, something we know kills over 480,000 people a year.”

Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are under fire for releasing generalized warnings advising the public to stop vaping. Michael Siegel, a Boston University public health professor, said the CDC is being “unnecessarily vague” when describing the illnesses as simply vaping-related while many people may be injured by vaping THC oil. “Based on what we know now, I think there’s enough to tell people: Don’t vape THC oils – especially products that are bought off the street,” Siegel said. “There are certain things the agency could be recommending right now that could potentially save lives and prevent this from happening by being much more specific.”

The FDA told state officials last week that lab tests found nothing unusual in nicotine vape products which were collected from sick patients. Scott Gottlieb, former FDA Commissioner, confirms the illnesses and deaths around the country “do not appear to be from legally sold vapes.” Other state and federal health authorities, including the Iowa Department of Public Health, have stated they are focusing on counterfeit THC substances as the likely cause of these respiratory illnesses.

E-cigarettes have been on the market since 2007 and this flood of lung illnesses only started three months ago. New York University public health professor and former science director for the anti-tobacco Truth Initiative, Ray Niaura, said the recent wave of respiratory illnesses means “it is unlikely (that the problem) is e-cigarettes that have been on the market for a long time. More likely, it’s … people are vaping a lot of other things besides nicotine, such as synthetic cannabis or contaminated THC that is making an appearance and leading to these bad consequences.”

The New England Journal of Medicine also acknowledges that in the 12 years e-cigarettes have been on the market in the US, there have been no related reports of pulmonary illnesses or deaths linked to the use of e-cigarette products (e.g., devices, liquids, refillable pods, or cartridges).

Nicotine vape products which are sold in vape stores across Iowa have been regulated by the Food and Drug Administration since August 2017 for their ingredients, marketing, labeling, and other features. The FDA has conducted more than 1,000 inspections of vape stores across the country, including Iowa, to ensure they are adhering to regulations. Gottlieb suggests THC oils, which have thus far evaded federal oversight, need to be similarly regulated by the FDA to prevent future respiratory illness outbreaks.

“THC oil is illegal in the state of Iowa and is not being sold in our stores. We urge consumers to not use these products as they may be damaging to your health,” Linden said.
Press Contact
Sarah Linden | President, IFAST (Iowans for Alternatives to Smoking and Tobacco)

ACS PRO VAPING IN FIGHT AGAINST TOBACCO

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The American Cancer Society (ACS) has admitted the American public has been misinformed about the dangers of vaping – and is now going to promote it as an alternative to smoking.

The leading health organization has set out in a public statement that it is tobacco, not nicotine, which contains the cancer-causing chemicals and carcinogens and states there’s an “urgent need” for consumer education about the risks posed by different tobacco products

While the ACS had already confirmed vaping was a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes in a report earlier this year, its tougher stance on eradicating the current smoking epidemic through actively promoting e-cigarettes and other cessation tools, is being seen as a positive step by vaping advocacy groups and public health experts.

It said in the statement: “Although many Electronic Nicotine Device Systems [such as e-cigarettes] deliver nicotine, flavor additives, and other chemicals, they do not burn tobacco, a process that yields an estimated 7000 chemicals, including at least 70 carcinogens. Thus, public misunderstanding underscores the urgent need for consumer education about the absolute and relative risks posed by different tobacco products and to reinvigorate smokers’ understanding of the importance of quitting combustible tobacco.”

Shining a spotlight on the swathe of misinformation being fed to the public by action groups and amongst smokers themselves, it explained: “Many consumers are misinformed about the harms of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). Many adults believe, erroneously, that ENDS are as harmful as combustible tobacco products, and the level of public understanding has deteriorated over time.

“In 2012, only 11.5% of respondents to a national survey held this view. By 2015, 35.7% of respondents mistakenly believed that the harm associated with electronic cigarettes was ‘about the same’ as that of smoking conventional cigarettes. At the same time, the Monitoring the Future study reports that, as of 2017, ‘e-cigarettes have one of the lowest levels of perceived risk for regular use of all drugs, including alcohol among adolescents.’

“Whereas complete information on all the potential risks and benefits of ENDS is not yet available, there is sufficient to allow ACS to act now with a clear focus on the primary goal of ending deadly combustible tobacco use, which is responsible for approximately a one-half million deaths per year and 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States.”

Talking about how it hopes to help eradicate tobacco smoking, one of its key strategies, amongst others, is to educate consumers on alternatives and communicate that “although the long-term effects of ENDS are not known, current-generation ENDS are markedly less harmful than combustible tobacco products”.

Earlier this year a study by pharmaceutical development company Pinney Associates indicated that while most adults are aware that nicotine is the addictive factor in cigarettes, most also wrongly assume that it causes cancer.

Additionally, the compiled data of 1,736 adults pointed out that smokers tend to be more misinformed than non-smokers, with 52.5 per cent of smokers vs 14.6 per cent of non-smokers, linked nicotine to cancer.