As vaping has become more popular around the world, vapers have been exploring a wide range of e-liquid options. Among these choices, one that has gained significant popularity is shortfill juice. For both seasoned vapers and those new to the scene, this type of e-liquid offers a unique blend of convenience and customization. But what exactly is shortfill juice, and why is it so beloved in the vaping community? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of shortfill juice, exploring what it is, how it works, and why it has become such a popular option for vapers everywhere.
What is Shortfill Juice?
Shortfill juice refers to e-liquid bottles that are intentionally underfilled, leaving extra space in the bottle for the user to add nicotine shots or nic shots. In most cases, these bottles are filled with nicotine-free e-liquid, and the extra space is provided so that users can add their own nicotine if they prefer.
The concept of shortfill juice was introduced as a direct response to regulations, such as the EU’s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), which limits the sale of e-liquids containing nicotine to a maximum bottle size of 10ml. By offering larger bottles (often 50ml or 100ml) without nicotine, shortfill juices allow vapers to purchase larger quantities of their favorite e-liquids while still complying with these regulations. The name “shortfill” comes from the fact that the bottle is “short-filled” on purpose, leaving room for the addition of nicotine.
How Does Shortfill Juice Work?
Shortfill bottles are typically filled with e-liquid up to about 80% of their capacity, with the remaining 20% left empty. This empty space is designed to accommodate a nicotine shot, which usually comes in a 10ml bottle containing a concentrated amount of nicotine. Once the nic shot is added to the shortfill juice, the bottle can be shaken to ensure an even distribution of nicotine throughout the e-liquid.
For example, a typical 50ml shortfill bottle may be designed to hold 60ml of liquid in total. After purchasing the bottle, a vaper can add 10ml of a nicotine shot (usually at a strength of 18mg/ml or 20mg/ml) to achieve their desired nicotine concentration. This method allows the vaper to tailor their nicotine intake without being restricted by the size limitations placed on pre-mixed e-liquids.
Benefits of Shortfill Juice
There are several reasons why shortfill juice has become such a popular choice among vapers, ranging from convenience to customization options. Let’s explore some of the key advantages.
1. Larger Quantities
One of the main reasons vapers turn to shortfill juice is the ability to purchase larger bottles. While traditional nicotine-containing e-liquids are often limited to 10ml bottles, shortfill juices typically come in larger sizes, such as 50ml or 100ml. For those who vape frequently, larger bottles are far more convenient, as they reduce the need for constant re-purchasing and cut down on waste.
2. Customization
Shortfill juice allows for a high degree of customization when it comes to nicotine strength. Vapers can choose whether to use nicotine at all, and if they do, they can decide exactly how much to add. For instance, some people prefer low nicotine levels (e.g., 3mg/ml), while others might prefer higher concentrations (e.g., 6mg/ml). Shortfill juice empowers users to create their ideal vaping experience based on their personal preferences.
Additionally, the absence of nicotine in shortfill juice means that users can mix and match different flavors without worrying about altering the nicotine content. This makes it easier to experiment with flavor combinations and try new things.
3. Compliance with Regulations
As mentioned earlier, shortfill juice was born out of the need to comply with regulations like the TPD, which restricts the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids in bottles larger than 10ml. Shortfill juices offer a simple solution by allowing vapers to buy nicotine-free e-liquids in larger quantities, while still maintaining the option to add nicotine if desired.
4. Cost-Effective
While the initial cost of purchasing a shortfill bottle and a nicotine shot might seem higher than buying pre-mixed e-liquids, in the long run, shortfill juice can be a more economical option. Larger bottles mean fewer purchases over time, and the cost per milliliter of e-liquid tends to be lower with shortfill juice compared to pre-mixed alternatives. For vapers who consume e-liquid regularly, this can result in significant savings.
5. Flavors without Nicotine Degradation
Nicotine is known to slightly alter the flavor of e-liquids over time. By purchasing shortfill juice, vapers can enjoy pure, unadulterated flavors before adding any nicotine. This is especially appealing for those who are keen on flavor precision and want to experience the e-liquid as the manufacturer intended. Some even choose to vape shortfill juice without adding nicotine at all, simply enjoying the flavors on their own.
How to Use Shortfill Juice
Using shortfill juice is relatively simple, but there are a few steps to keep in mind to ensure the best experience:
- Choose Your Nicotine Shot: Decide whether you want to add nicotine and how much. A common strength for nicotine shots is 18mg/ml or 20mg/ml, but it’s essential to calculate how much you’ll need to achieve your desired nicotine level. If you want a 3mg/ml strength, for example, adding a full 10ml nic shot to a 50ml shortfill bottle will typically give you the right concentration.
- Add the Nic Shot: Open your shortfill bottle and carefully pour in the nic shot. Be sure to leave some space for the liquid to mix properly.
- Shake Well: Once you’ve added the nicotine shot, shake the bottle vigorously to ensure the nicotine and e-liquid are thoroughly mixed.
- Let It Steep: Some e-liquids benefit from steeping, which allows the flavors to mature and blend over time. If you notice that the flavor seems a bit off after adding the nic shot, give it a few days to steep.
Conclusion
Shortfill juice has revolutionized the way vapers approach e-liquids, offering a flexible and customizable option that many find preferable to traditional pre-mixed e-liquids. With larger quantities, the ability to fine-tune nicotine levels, and better flavor preservation, it’s no wonder why shortfill juice has become a fan favorite in the vaping community.
Whether you’re looking for cost savings, more control over your nicotine intake, or just the convenience of having larger bottles, shortfill juice provides a versatile solution that caters to a wide range of vaping preferences.
