Is beeswax vegan-friendly?

No, beeswax is not considered vegan as it is an animal-derived product. Vegans avoid beeswax because it is produced by honey bees.

Are there any substitutes for beeswax in food?

There are no direct substitutes for beeswax that provide the same glazing properties, but other plant-based waxes might be used depending on the application.

Beeswax

Avoid

Glazing Agent

Beeswax, also known as E901 or cera alba, is a natural wax produced by honey bees. It is often used in food as a glazing agent.

What is Beeswax?

Beeswax is a natural substance produced by honey bees that is secreted to construct honeycomb. It is used in various applications, including as a food additive known as E901. In the food industry, beeswax is primarily utilized as a glazing agent to improve the appearance and shelf life of certain products. It is valued for its ability to create a protective coating that can extend the freshness of food items like fruits and candies.

Also known as:

E901cera alba901

Unsure about an ingredient? Scan it instantly.

Try Spoonful

Diet Compatibility

VeganAvoid

Beeswax (also called e901 or cera alba) is a natural wax produced by honey bees.

Learn more →

Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Learn more →

Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Learn more →

Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Learn more →

Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Learn more →

VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

Learn more →

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Beeswax

People, especially those following a vegan lifestyle, avoid beeswax because it is an animal-derived product. Vegans do not consume or use animal products or by-products, and since beeswax is produced by honey bees, it does not align with vegan dietary principles. Additionally, some people might avoid it due to concerns about bee conservation and ethical considerations surrounding the exploitation of bees.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Spoonful flags ingredients that don't match your diet.

Get the App