Vape Juice — Nicotine, Calories & Tobacco Explained
Reviewed by VAPESALES · Updated 2025
Vape juice explained — learn about nicotine strengths, calorie content, PG/VG ratios, tobacco differences and how to choose the right e-liquid for your vape kit. A simple, helpful VAPESALES guide for new and experienced vapers.
Quick Summary
- Nicotine: UK limit is 20mg in 10ml bottles.
- Calories: Negligible because vapour is inhaled—not digested.
- Vaping vs smoking: Nicotine delivery feels different but is adjustable.
- Best start: Choose a strength that matches your previous smoking habits.
What Is Vape Juice?
Vape juice is made from VG, PG, flavourings and optional nicotine. The blend determines throat hit, smoothness, cloud size and flavour intensity. Want the full breakdown? See our Complete E-Liquids Guide.
Nicotine Strengths (and What They Mean)
The UK TPD rules limit any nicotine e-liquid to 20mg maximum in 10ml bottles. Choosing the right strength depends on your smoking history and whether you use MTL or DTL kits.
| Previous smoking | Nic Salts (Pods) | Freebase (50/50) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 cigarettes/day | 5–10mg | 3–6mg |
| 6–14 cigarettes/day | 10–20mg | 6–12mg |
| 15+ cigarettes/day | 18–20mg | 12–18mg |
Need help picking? Try our Nicotine Strength Guide.
How Many Calories Are in Vape Juice?
Technically, VG and PG contain calories — but because vapour is inhaled rather than swallowed, the true calorie intake is almost zero. Even heavy vapers consume far less than a single calorie per session.
Vaping vs Smoking (Nicotine Delivery)
A cigarette typically delivers sharp “hits” of nicotine due to combustion. Vaping delivers nicotine more gradually, letting you control both strength and puff frequency.
- 15 puffs ≈ 1 cigarette (typical smoker)
- Vapes vary by airflow, wattage and draw duration
- Start higher, taper down as cravings fade
Best Vape Juice for Beginners
Pod / MTL Kits
Use 50/50 or nic salts for smooth, cigarette-like satisfaction.
Shop Vape KitsShop Nic Salts
Sub-Ohm / DTL Kits
Use high-VG shortfills with low nicotine (0–6mg).
DTL KitsShortfills
Safety & Storage Tips
- Store e-liquids in a cool, dark place.
- Keep bottles sealed tightly when not in use.
- Keep upright to avoid leaks.
- Prime coils properly and avoid over-wattage.
More help: E-Liquid Storage · Battery & Coil Safety
FAQs — Nicotine, Calories & Tobacco
Is nicotine the harmful part of smoking?
No. Nicotine is addictive, but the danger comes from toxins produced by burning tobacco—not the nicotine itself.
Does vaping cause weight gain because of calories?
No. Calories in vapour are negligible and do not affect diet or weight.
What’s the legal nicotine limit in the UK?
TPD rules cap e-liquids at 20mg/ml in 10ml bottles.
How many vape puffs equal a cigarette?
There is no precise 1:1 ratio. A cigarette averages 15 puffs, but vape puffs vary by device and draw style.
Should beginners use nic salts or freebase?
Nic salts are smoother at higher strengths, ideal for pod kits. Freebase provides a stronger throat hit and works at lower strengths.