Can Established Vapers Distinguish Different PG:VG Ratios? A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Vaping and E-cigarette Research
• Sensory Science
• Consumer Product Analysis

Background:

• Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) are primary e-liquid solvents.
• The PG:VG ratio influences e-liquid viscosity, vapor production, and throat hit.
• Understanding sensory perception of PG:VG ratios is crucial for product development and regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if experienced vapers can discern subtle differences in PG:VG ratios.
• To assess the impact of varying PG:VG ratios on the sensory experience of e-liquids.
• To determine the salience of PG:VG ratios in e-liquid formulations.

Main Methods:

• A triangle test was employed with watermelon-flavored e-liquids at fixed nicotine (16mg/mL) and flavor levels.
• Three distinct PG:VG ratios (30:70, 50:50, 70:30) were used.
• Participants identified the 'odd' product among three samples and rated their sensory experience.

Main Results:

• Only 34.9% of participants correctly identified the 'odd' e-liquid based on PG:VG ratio differences.
• Subjective ratings for the 'odd' product were generally low.
• Aversion scores showed a significant difference based on correct identification (p = .045).

Conclusions:

• Experienced vapers could not consistently distinguish between different PG:VG ratios, even with substantial variations.
• Correct identification of PG:VG ratios did not consistently correlate with subjective sensory ratings.
• Preliminary evidence suggests PG:VG ratio may not be a primary driver of sensory perception in vaping.