If you’ve ever looked at a vape cartridge and wondered what is in a vape cartridge, you’re not alone. Vape cartridges may look simple, but they contain a mix of substances that directly affect what you inhale into your body.
In this guide, we’ll clearly explain what vape cartridges are made of, why each ingredient is used, how nicotine and THC cartridges differ, and what to watch out for—all in easy, no-nonsense language.
A vape cartridge (often called a “cart”) is a small, pre-filled container designed to attach to a vape battery. When heated, it turns liquid into vapor for inhalation.
Most cartridges include:
The exact contents depend on the type of cartridge, but most include some or all of the following:
This is what turns into vapor. It may contain:
This liquid makes up the majority of the cartridge’s contents.
PG is a thin, odorless liquid used to:
It’s commonly used in food and medicine, but inhaling it may cause irritation for some people.
VG is thicker and slightly sweet. It:
Most vape liquids use a PG/VG blend to balance flavor and vapor.
Flavorings give vape cartridges their taste, such as fruit, mint, or dessert flavors.
⚠️ Important note:
While flavorings may be safe to eat, not all are proven safe to inhale when heated.
Nicotine-containing cartridges may include:
Nicotine is addictive and affects heart rate, blood pressure, and brain chemistry.
In regions where legal, vape cartridges may contain:
These cartridges usually use cannabis extracts rather than PG/VG.
Some cartridges may also contain:
🚫 Certain additives—like vitamin E acetate—have been linked to serious lung injuries and should be avoided.
Legitimate cartridges should not contain:
These are more common in unregulated or counterfeit products.
To understand what you’re inhaling:
If ingredients aren’t listed clearly, that’s a red flag.
Vaping is not risk-free.
While some ingredients are generally recognized as safe for eating, long-term inhalation effects are still being studied. Risks depend on:
Non-smokers, teens, and pregnant individuals should avoid vaping entirely.
Usually a mix of PG, VG, flavorings, and optional nicotine or cannabis extract.
No. Many are nicotine-free or contain CBD or THC instead.
Regulation varies by country and state. Unregulated products pose higher risks.
Yes—especially counterfeit or poorly manufactured cartridges.
Yes. THC carts typically use cannabis oil instead of PG/VG blends.
Buy legal, tested products and avoid unknown sellers.
So, what is in a vape cartridge?
Most contain a liquid base (PG/VG or oil), flavorings, and optional nicotine or cannabis extracts—but quality and safety depend heavily on where the cartridge comes from.
Understanding the ingredients helps you make safer, more informed choices.
