So as per the title, here are the results: http://imgur.com/a/FsCql
Please note that these tests were made on 18 samples of e-liquid locally made in South Africa.
While almost all measurements are within USP spec the levels of Iron and lead found is of concern. The daily exposure of lead and iron exceeds FDA safety recommendations.
Thoughts?
The report shows contamination in parts per million.
Generally speaking we expect to see levels of up to 5PPM for heavy metals. That said , lead is an exception as the FDA exposure recommendation is 1PPM. You will note that the COA's we published some weeks ago most levels were measured in parts per billion. Any reading in parts per million needs to be investigated as it is a significant component worthy of control. We are reasonably certain that the metals contamination is coming from chemical suppliers that use mild steel in their manufacturing process instead of stainless steel.
This literally doesn't tell us anything. Was it liquid phase testing or vapor phase testing? What methodologies did they use? Have you tested other liquids? Posting results like this without explaining it, is scary. This is pretty much how the DA scare started.
I don't think the FDA has any sway in South Africa
Many countries look to the United States while setting up their own regulations. Also, there is this commitment as well. Basically, it's a governmental agency NDA between the FDA and South Africa's MCC.
As it seems it would be sketchy, but wouldn't it be impossible for the heavy metals to be vaporized and to reach our lungs? I would contact the vape shop these samples came from and let them know and politely ask if they're adding water in the mixing process and if so, not to use tap water. It could also not be their fault if they are ordering flavor concentrates that contain water in them. Some of the brands that use water could have used contaminated water. Just a thought. Intelligent and interesting comments on this thread.