Is Carnauba Wax Safe?
Carnauba Wax is the additive E903 — harvested from the leaves of the carnauba palm, used as a glazing agents & waxe to help give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer.
Is Carnauba Wax safe to eat?
E903 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E903.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Carnauba Wax?
E903 is the E-number for carnauba wax, one of the glazing agents & waxes group of food additives (E900–E999). Additives in this group give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer. Harvested from the leaves of the carnauba palm. Like every E-number, E903 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E903 in detail below.
What foods contain Carnauba Wax?
E903 (Carnauba Wax) is typically found in:
- Sweets
- Chocolate
- Chewing gum
- Fresh fruit coatings and baked goods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carnauba Wax bad for you?
Yes. E903 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Carnauba Wax vegan?
E903 is vegan. Harvested from the leaves of the carnauba palm, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Carnauba Wax halal?
E903 is halal. Harvested from the leaves of the carnauba palm, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E903 (Carnauba Wax) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).