Comparing E902 - Candelilla wax vs E903 - Carnauba wax
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 142 products
Found in 9,053 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is candelilla wax an emulsifier?
In foods, E902 is primarily a glazing/coating wax and structuring/thickening agent; it isn’t a true emulsifier, though it can help stabilize texture in some formulations.
What is candelilla wax made of?
A plant-derived wax from the leaves of the Candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera/antisyphilitica), composed mainly of long‑chain hydrocarbons, wax esters, fatty acids, and resins.
Does candelilla wax clog pores?
It’s generally considered low‑comedogenic and unlikely to clog pores for most people, though any waxy, occlusive ingredient can bother some acne‑prone skin.
What is candelilla wax used for?
In foods (E902) it’s used mainly as a glazing/surface‑coating agent and as a texturizer. It gives shine and a moisture barrier to confectionery, fruits, and chewing gum, and helps firm or thicken products.
What is euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax?
It’s the plant wax obtained from the leaves of the Candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera), approved in foods as E902 chiefly for glazing/coating and thickening functions.
Is carnauba wax edible?
Yes—E903 carnauba wax is an approved food glazing/coating agent and is considered safe at typical food levels; it’s essentially inert and passes through the body undigested.
Is carnauba wax vegan?
Yes—it's a plant-derived wax from the leaves of the carnauba palm and is generally considered vegan.
What is carnauba wax in food?
It’s a plant wax used as a glazing/coating agent to add shine, prevent sticking, and reduce moisture loss on products like candies, chewing gum, chocolate, and some fruits.
Where does carnauba wax come from?
It comes from the leaves of the carnauba palm (Copernicia prunifera) native to northeastern Brazil; the dried leaves are beaten to release the wax, which is then refined.
How long does carnauba wax last?
The wax itself is very stable and can be stored for years if kept cool and dry; on foods, the thin coating lasts through the product’s normal shelf life but doesn’t significantly extend it.