Alcoholic drinks, particularly beer and vodka, continue to be popular in Poland despite the criticism surrounding alcohol consumption in the country. In 2023, Poland was ranked as Europe’s third biggest beer producer and is known for being a major exporter of vodka. However, the government has recently implemented stricter laws on alcohol sales in response to rising reports of car crashes and accidents involving minors under the influence of alcohol. The sale of alcohol to minors is illegal in Poland, with vendors now being required to check the buyer’s documents for age verification.
One recent controversy in Poland involved the sale of squeezable alcohol-filled pouches that resembled children’s snacks. The product, named Voodoo Monkey, was owned by a Polish firm that primarily produced non-alcoholic fruit drinks and snacks. After facing criticism, the company apologized and announced that the product would be discontinued. The issue of alcohol consumption in Poland has been a contentious topic in the past, with former Deputy Prime Minister Jarosław Kaczyński blaming women’s alcohol consumption for the country’s low birth rate in 2022.
Despite these controversies, alcohol consumption in Poland remains high, with an increase in consumption reported between 2010 and 2020. While Europe saw a slight decrease in alcohol consumption during the same period, Poland experienced an increase of 1 litre per year for individuals over the age of 15. The alcohol industry in Poland is a significant source of revenue for the government, with tax from alcohol sales bringing in billions of zlotys annually.
In response to these trends, the Polish government has decided to strengthen its regulations on alcohol sales to prevent minors from purchasing drinks late at night, particularly at 24/7 stores like petrol stations. The new rules will make it compulsory for vendors to check the buyer’s documents for age verification and will ban the sale of alcohol between 10 pm and 6 am at petrol stations, where it is currently available around the clock. Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna emphasized the importance of responsible selling practices and ensuring that vendors are more attentive in their roles.
The issue of alcohol consumption in Poland has been a topic of discussion for both government officials and public figures, with various controversies surrounding the sale and consumption of alcohol in the country. While the industry continues to thrive and bring in revenue for the state, the government is taking steps to address concerns about underage drinking and alcohol-related accidents. By enforcing stricter regulations on alcohol sales and cracking down on the availability of alcohol to minors, Poland aims to reduce the negative impact of alcohol consumption on society.
