E905a: Mineral oil

What is E905a?

E905a refers to food-grade mineral oil, also called liquid paraffin or white mineral oil: a highly refined, colourless and odourless mixture of liquid hydrocarbons. It does not go rancid and repels water.

Origin and production

Mineral oil is obtained from crude petroleum and then intensively refined to remove impurities, particularly aromatic hydrocarbons. It is not derived from plants or animals.

Why is it used?

Food-grade mineral oil has been used as a release agent, glazing agent and anti-sticking agent, for example to give sweets a shine, to stop dried fruit or baked goods sticking, and as a lubricant on equipment. The categories in which it is reported include confectionery, jelly beans, snacks, breads and cakes.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

E905a is petroleum-derived and contains no animal material, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher concerns of its own.

Safety and regulation

Mineral oil under the code E905a is not included in the European Union's current list of authorised food additives, although related uses are permitted in some other jurisdictions. Regulators including EFSA continue to examine mineral oil hydrocarbons in food, particularly the aromatic fraction known as MOAH.

Common in