Poland's Minister of Health, Izabela Leszczyna, announced during a press conference on Thursday that her ministry is working on legislation to ban single-use e-cigarettes. She stated that a realistic deadline for completing this work is April, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Single-Use E-Cigarettes Pose Significant Health and Environmental Risks
Minister Leszczyna stressed that single-use e-cigarettes currently pose the greatest threat, particularly to young people who, according to the law, should not be able to purchase them at all. "Unfortunately, we know that reality is different," she acknowledged.
The minister explained that the product constitutes a health hazard because "we don't fully know what is contained in these single-use containers." She also highlighted the environmental impact, noting that the devices are "simply discarded" after one use. The proposed regulations will need to be notified to the European Commission.
Ministry Prioritizes Electoral Promises, Pushes Back Original Deadline
Leszczyna admitted that the original March deadline for completing work on the legislation is unrealistic, as ministry officials have been heavily engaged in efforts to fulfill electoral promises in recent weeks. These include the introduction of in vitro fertilization by June 1, the "morning-after pill," changes to the perinatal care package, and ensuring access to perinatal anesthesia in large maternity wards.
"So probably not in March, but April is definitely the deadline," she emphasized, referring to the completion of work on the bill banning the sale of single-use e-cigarettes.
Sweeteners in E-Cigarettes Raise Addiction and Health Concerns
Małgorzata Niemczyk (KO), chairwoman of the Parliamentary Team for Counteracting Addictions, underscored the risks associated with single-use e-cigarettes. In addition to nicotine, these devices often contain a sweetening substance, such as sucralose, which is 300-800 times sweeter than sucrose.
Niemczyk pointed out that studies suggest sucralose, when inhaled in the form of water vapor, is highly addictive and may have carcinogenic effects and cause irreversible changes in the brain. The attractive, colorful packaging and placement of single-use e-cigarettes near sweets in stores further contribute to their appeal to young people.
Skyrocketing Sales and Global Trends Highlight Urgency for Action
The sale of single-use e-cigarettes in Poland has risen dramatically in recent years, with 32 million units sold in 2022 and over 100 million units in 2023. According to the World Health Organization, one in five cigarettes sold worldwide is a flavored single-use e-cigarette. A report by the Market Monitoring Center estimates the value of the single-use e-cigarette market in Poland at PLN 2 billion (approximately USD 500 million).
Moreover, a CBOS survey reveals that one in four individuals under the age of 18 report using electronic cigarettes and alternative products.
As Poland moves forward with plans to ban single-use e-cigarettes, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. With the growing concern over the health risks and environmental impact associated with these products, swift and decisive action is crucial to protect public health and the well-being of future generations.
