What is E902?
E902 is Candelilla Wax — harvested from the candelilla shrub, used as a glazing agents & waxe to help give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer.
What is E902 (Candelilla Wax)?
E902 is the E-number for candelilla 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 candelilla shrub. Like every E-number, E902 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 E902 in detail below.
Where is E902 found?
E902 is typically used in sweets, chocolate, chewing gum, fresh fruit coatings and baked goods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E902) or by its full name, candelilla wax. Common foods that may contain E902 include:
- Sweets
- Chocolate
- Chewing gum
- Fresh fruit coatings and baked goods
Full guide: foods containing E902 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E902 safe?
E902 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 E902.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E902 vegan?
E902 is vegan. Harvested from the candelilla shrub, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E902 →Is E902 halal?
E902 is halal. Harvested from the candelilla shrub, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E902 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E902 in food?
E902 is Candelilla Wax — harvested from the candelilla shrub, used as a glazing agents & waxe to help give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer.
Is E902 safe to eat?
Yes. E902 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E902 vegan?
E902 is vegan. Harvested from the candelilla shrub, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E902 halal?
E902 is halal. Harvested from the candelilla shrub, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).