Sheldon Shuffield, a resident of Fort Worth, Texas, recently went viral on TikTok after conducting an experiment to test the efficiency of the HEPA filter in his new Mercedes using vape smoke. The video, which gained over 22 million views, showed how the air quality in the car quickly deteriorated when vape smoke was blown into the interior.
The HEPA filter in Shuffield’s Mercedes is designed to purify the air that enters the car, creating a healthier environment for passengers. When Shuffield’s husband blew vape smoke into the car, the filter’s interior numbers rose from a “Good” rating to a peak “Very Unhealthy” rating before the car began filtering out the poor air. This experiment highlighted the potential dangers of vaping, especially when children are present in the car.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Shuffield expressed his shock at the harmful effects of vape smoke compared to fumes from vehicles on the road. He emphasized the importance of being aware of the air quality in enclosed spaces like cars, especially when vaping is involved.
A Mercedes spokesperson explained that the optional HEPA filter in their vehicles significantly improves air quality by capturing fine dust, micro-particles, and reducing harmful pollutants. This advanced filtration system ensures a clean and safe environment inside the vehicle, comparable to clean rooms and operating theaters.
Theodore Wagener, an expert in tobacco research, commented on the video, stating that the experiment serves as a reminder of the harmful effects of vaping on lung health. While e-cigarettes may be considered less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they are not completely safe and should only be used as a harm reduction method for smokers struggling to quit.
Shuffield and his husband have since reduced their vaping habits to set a good example for their children. Shuffield’s advice to those addicted to vaping is to try to step away from it as much as possible and not let it become a constant habit. By raising awareness about the potential health risks associated with vaping, Shuffield hopes to encourage others to consider their habits and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
