On July 25th, Polish Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna announced on Polsat News that starting January 1, 2025, the sale of all Vape products to individuals under 18 years old will be prohibited. This includes Vapes containing nicotine and those with nicotine-free e-liquids.
Legislative Changes
Currently, nicotine-free Vapes and refill containers do not fall under the definitions set by the Tobacco Act. The proposed amendments aim to include nicotine-free liquids under legislative control. This change will ban their sale to minors, limit their usage locations, prohibit sales through vending machines and online platforms, and ban their advertisement and promotion.
Minister Leszczyna emphasized that all types of Vapes are addictive. To combat this, the proposed legislation will enforce stricter regulations to prevent minors from accessing these products. “These cigarettes, even without nicotine, mimic flavors like watermelon or strawberry,” she noted, stressing that they are still harmful.
Health Protection Initiatives
The draft amendment to the Health Protection Act against the Consequences of Tobacco Use is currently under consultation. The need for revision stems from the urgent necessity to limit the use of Vapes among young people. The new regulations will require manufacturers to report their products to the President of the Chemical Substances Bureau, ensure their composition meets legal standards (e.g., banning substances with CMR properties), and appropriately label their packaging.
The justification for the project underscores that the threat posed by nicotine-free liquids is not significantly less than that posed by nicotine-containing products. The popularity of nicotine-free products increases the risk of young people accessing tobacco products, similar to nicotine Vapes. The law is set to come into effect three months after its announcement.
Summary
Poland is taking significant steps to curb the use of Vapes among minors by implementing comprehensive legislative changes. These measures reflect a broader effort to protect the health of young people and prevent the onset of nicotine addiction. The proposed regulations will align with the country’s ongoing commitment to public health and tobacco control.
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