E905: Synthetic wax

What is E905?

E905 refers to hydrocarbon waxes used on food surfaces; in the EU the code covers microcrystalline wax, a refined petroleum wax made of saturated hydrocarbons. It is solid, odourless and tasteless and forms a thin, water-repelling film.

Origin and production

Microcrystalline wax is obtained from petroleum during refining and is then highly purified to meet food-grade specifications. Some databases also use the term 'synthetic wax' for similar hydrocarbon waxes produced by chemical synthesis.

Why is it used?

These waxes are used as glazing and coating agents: they give sweets a shiny surface, stop pieces sticking together and reduce moisture loss. They appear in confectionery such as jelly beans and coated sweets, chewing gum, and in some cases on fruit skins or as a coating on other products.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

E905 is derived from petroleum or synthesis, not from animals, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher concerns of its own.

Safety and regulation

Microcrystalline wax is authorised in the European Union as a surface treatment for a limited range of products, such as confectionery, chewing gum and certain fruits. EFSA re-evaluated it in 2013 and did not identify a safety concern for the authorised uses.

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