Fact Check: Researchers discover presence of fecal contamination in vape products, emphasizing importance of context

In October 2025, a research study highlighted the presence of bacteria in certain vaping devices, pointing to fecal contamination. The investigation focused on a collection of vaping products obtained from Virginia schools during the 2024-2025 academic year.

Researchers discovered traces of coliform bacteriaa marker for fecal matterin some of the confiscated or found devices on school grounds. Importantly, the study clarified that newly purchased, unopened vapes showed no signs of contamination, indicating that the bacteria were introduced through handling and storage.

Social media users amplified the findings in fall 2025, claiming that vapes contained E. coli and other harmful microbes. Posts on platforms such as X, Facebook, and Instagram described the results as shocking, emphasizing that users might inhale bacteria in addition to nicotine and other chemical additives. However, the viral posts often omitted key details, such as which devices were affected and whether they were used or unused.

Details of the Research

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) released a statement on October 30, 2025, confirming that its forensic toxicology lab conducted the study. The team analyzed nearly 1,300 vaping products collected from K-12 schools as part of a broader effort to reveal the ingredients in unregulated vapes and cannabis products.

The researchers identified microbiological contaminants, including bacteria, yeast, and coliform, in some of the devices. Certain samples exceeded safe exposure thresholds, raising concerns about potential health risks. Professor Michelle Peace, a member of the research team, explained that coliform bacteria are normally found in mammalian intestines and indicate possible fecal contamination. Inhalation of these microbes can cause lung inflammation and pneumonia.

Peace emphasized that the contaminated devices had been confiscated or discovered on school premises, and that freshly purchased vapes tested immediately after opening showed no bacterial contamination. This suggests that the contamination was due to improper handling and storage rather than the manufacturing process.

Health and Safety Recommendations

Based on their findings, the researchers advised consumers to be cautious about where and how vaping devices are stored. Hand hygiene is critical, particularly after using the bathroom, since bacteria can transfer easily to items like vapes. Peace noted that many confiscated devices were found in bathrooms, pockets, trash cans, or other unsanitary locations, which can promote bacterial growth.

Any detectable coliform in an inhaled product is considered unacceptable according to the U.S. Pharmacopeia, which requires an absence of bile-tolerant, gram-negative bacteria in such products.

Conclusion

While some vaping devices in schools contained bacteria indicating fecal contamination, the study clarified that these findings were linked to handling and storage practices rather than defects in new products. The research underscores the importance of hand hygiene and careful storage of items that come into contact with the mouth.

For related information:

• Coliform Bacteria in Drinking Water Supplies
• VCU Current Research Team
• Microbiological Examination of Nonsterile Products: U.S. Pharmacopeia
• VCU Study on Vaping Risks
• VCU YouTube Overview

Author: Sophia Brooks