Surge in disposable and dangerous E-Cigarette called Poco Bar use among youth in Hungary

The rising popularity of disposable electronic cigarettes, particularly the newly emerged Poco Bar, replacing the Elf Bar, has raised concerns. Products like the Elf Bar/Poco Bar facilitate almost continuous smoking, potentially leading to nicotine overexposure. Efforts are underway in Hungary to tackle this issue, including blocking online sales by various organisations.

The Poco Bar, an upgraded version of the Elf Bar flavoured e-cigarette, offers up to 10,000 puffs compared to the older model’s 600-300 puffs. Each puff contains a significant nicotine dose equivalent to smoking 2 or 3 packs of cigarettes. Consequently, there has been a notable increase in nicotine poisoning cases among children due to the high nicotine content and prolonged usage of these devices, as reported by Index.

In 2023, the National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy received reports, both direct and indirect, about the growing popularity of a new type of electronic cigarette among young people. This information was gathered through field visits, particularly from teachers and representatives of the younger age group.

Health promotion and public health experts from government agencies and health promotion offices have also confirmed the emergence of the previously mentioned new device, the Poco Bar.

Despite being relatively unknown, the Poco Bar poses significant risks due to its untraceable origin and unreliable liquid content. Its enticing flavours attract young buyers, but its unregulated nature can lead to life-threatening situations if users are not cautious. Currently classified as a tobacco product under the law, it should only be sold in sealed, unflavoured versions at designated tobacco shops.

Dr Katalin Várdi, a pulmonologist and somatologist, highlighted the most alarming aspect of the Poco Bar: its potential for indefinite smoking, which can lead to nicotine overexposure. Users can easily consume large amounts without realising it, posing serious health hazards, especially among young individuals who may not understand the consequences of their consumption habits, according to 24.hu.

She also expressed concern that while manufacturers may intend to educate young people, dependency on these products can lead to withdrawal difficulties such as anxiety, depression and family tension. The temperature also plays a crucial role in the chemistry of these products, but due to their untested nature and potential for manufacturer modifications, predicting their effects on the body is challenging.

Authorities react to Poco Bar

The National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy has reported significant discrepancies between the indicated nicotine concentration on electronic cigarette products and the actual amount present in the liquid, which often exceeded a 10% margin of error. For instance, the labelled 3 to 5% nicotine concentration means that a single Poco Bar contains as much nicotine as 2 to 5 packets of traditional cigarettes.

According to the National Ambulance Service, since the 1st of January, 2023, there have been 96 documented cases of complaints and symptoms related to nicotine consumption, with almost all involving minors. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported among these cases. However, three cases were associated with the Elf Bar product, while there was no mention of the Poco Bar.

The National Tax and Customs Office (NAV) is closely monitoring the illegal trade of Elf Bar and Poco Bar products, although specific details are not disclosed due to ongoing controls. However, it has been disclosed that NAV has conducted numerous raids targeting Elf Bar products, resulting in over HUF 860 million (EUR 2.1 million) worth of seized goods, HUF 20 million (EUR 50,000) in fines, and several criminal proceedings.

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