PG & VG: What are they and why do they matter?

You must have seen the terms PG and VG and the ratio when it comes to e-liquids. Both of these are confounding and ambiguous variations between Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) e-juice for both beginners and even more experienced vapers. We have developed this guide to help you better understand and study some context details, advantages, and disadvantages.

Let’s begin with history and terminology. The term PG is a Propylene Glycol abbreviation, and the term VG derives from Vegetable Glycerin. The e-juice or the e-liquid is typical of four elements. Propylene Glycol (PG) and VG, water, flavouring, and nicotine are the additives. E-juice mix PG and VG in many cases to get the best of both ingredients.

What is Propylene Glycol (PG)?

Propylene Glycol is an organic compound produced by Propylene Oxide. It is colorless, nearly odorless, and retains low viscosity. Food grade Propylene Glycol is recognized safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The main applications for Propylene Glycol are solvents, humectants, preservatives in food, tobacco products, pharmaceutical products, and of course e-juice.

PG is really useful for two reasons; it provides a similar sensation to smoking because of its texture, and undoubtedly the flavor. With a smaller VG ratio, PG allows the natural flavors of your e-liquid to come alive. In addition, it means:

• The wicks absorb PG much quicker than the thicker VG liquid.
• PG’s thin texture will not build up around the heating element of your vaporizer.
• Less time cleaning your device and more time vaping!

What is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

Vegetable Glycerin is an all-natural liquid generally extracted from plant oils, in particular, soy, coconut oil, and palm oil. It is typically clear with a little hint of color, odorless, in some cases sweet, and relatively viscous. Like Propylene Glycol it is considered safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The main applications of Vegetable Glycerin are cosmetics products, food production, and e-juice.

The most common reason for people choosing VG e-liquid is its capability to produce some seriously huge clouds of vapor. Ever dreamed of entering a cloud-chasing competition? Then this is a great starting point. How is this possible? If the consistency of the liquid is denser, the cloud thickens.

As mentioned, VG is made from vegetable oils and plant material, meaning that it’s completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike. There are a few great reasons to opt for a VG-heavy e-liquid:

• Unlike PG, VG is not known to cause an allergic reaction, great for those struggling with PG.
• Less need for additives as a way to ‘boost’ the flavor because VG is 100% natural. Satisfy your sweet tooth!

What are PG/VG Ratios?

The PG and VG content of e-juices is expressed as a PG/VG ratio. This has the format “percentage PG/percentage VG.” So a 50/50 e-juice has equal amounts of PG and VG, and a 70/30 one has 70 % PG and 30 % VG.

A 70 % VG blend could be shown as 30/70, but sometimes (particularly with higher-VG juices), the order is reversed, so it could be shown as 70/30 VG/PG. Normally, the order of the two ingredients will be specified for clarity.

You will find your ratio!

The decision you have to make comes down to personal preference. Do you want big clouds? Do you think you’ll need a cigarette-like throat hit? Do you need to keep the VG content quite low so your clearomizer’s wick will soak it up effectively? If you can answer these questions, you’ll have a good idea of which ingredient you should prioritize.

All of this might be a little confusing, but do not be too concerned. Although we may have preferences, we’re not stringent. You’ll find something that suits you quickly. Explore the possibilities and play a bit.

Note: Generally, both VG and PG are substances are deemed safe by the FDA. As we stated earlier, it’s used in several pharmaceutical and food products, which suggests its merits and widespread use. However, bear in mind that it’s more related to ingestion than inhalation. Nevertheless, several studies highlight that limited health-related issues are surrounding the toxicity of VG, especially when keeping within specific measures.