Comparing E901 - white and yellow beeswax vs E905 - Synthetic wax

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Overview

E901 - white and yellow beeswax

White and yellow beeswax (E901) is a natural wax made by honey bees. In food, it is mostly used as a glossy coating and release agent that helps foods look appealing and not stick together. It has long been evaluated by food-safety agencies and is considered safe at typical use levels.

E905 - Synthetic wax

Synthetic wax (E905) is a highly refined, petroleum‑derived wax used in tiny amounts to give foods a smooth, glossy finish or to keep them from sticking. It shows up most often on the outside of confections and in chewing gum coatings, and it is regulated with strict purity and use limits in both the U.S. and the EU. It does not add flavor or nutrition; it’s there to protect texture and appearance.

Synonyms

E901

white and yellow beeswax

beeswax

white beeswax

yellow beeswax

white wax

E905

Synthetic wax

Hydrocarbon wax

Fischer-Tropsch wax

Functions

glazing agent

Origins

Animal

Synthetic

Mineral

Products

Found in 1,221 products

Found in 1,468 products

Search rank & volume

#7433.2K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#317510 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×3.96

over-aware

×0.05

under-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 6 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

How to make beeswax candles?
Melt clean beeswax in a double boiler to around 70°C, secure a cotton wick in a heat-safe mold or jar, pour the wax, and let it cool; adding about 5–10% coconut oil can improve burn and reduce cracking. Use a double boiler and avoid overheating or open flames for safety.
How to make beeswax wraps?
Grate beeswax (optionally with a little pine resin and jojoba oil), sprinkle over clean cotton fabric, then warm in an oven at about 80–100°C until melted, brush to spread evenly, and let cool to set. As E901 it’s food-contact safe; clean wraps with cool water and mild soap.
Can you eat beeswax?
Yes—beeswax (E901) is approved as a food glazing agent and small amounts are considered safe, but it’s poorly digested and provides virtually no nutrition. People allergic to bee products should avoid it.
How to get beeswax in minecraft?
In Minecraft, “beeswax” is obtained as honeycomb: place a lit campfire under a bee nest/hive at honey level 5, then use shears to collect it without angering bees. Honeycomb is used to wax copper, craft candles, and make beehives.
Is beeswax good for skin?
Beeswax forms a protective, occlusive layer that helps retain moisture and is commonly used in balms and creams; it’s generally well tolerated. Individuals sensitive to bee products (pollen/propolis) may experience reactions.