E902 - Candelilla wax

Origin

Candelilla wax is a vegetable wax obtained from the leaves of the *Euphorbia cerifera* plant, a shrub native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. The wax is extracted by boiling the plant stems and leaves in water, resulting in a crude wax that is then further processed and refined.

Usage

Candelilla wax is used in a wide variety of applications, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. In the food industry, it serves as a glazing agent for confectionery, chewing gum, and fresh produce, providing a glossy appearance and helping to retain moisture. It is also used as a component of some food packaging materials. In cosmetics, it is used in lipsticks, lip balms, lotions, and creams, where it acts as a thickening agent, emollient, and stabilizer. It can also be found in polishes and varnishes. Candelilla wax is considered a suitable vegan alternative to beeswax.

Side Effects

Candelilla wax is generally considered safe for human consumption and topical application. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of "not specified," meaning that, based on available data, the intake of candelilla wax at levels necessary to achieve the desired technological effect in food does not represent a health hazard. Allergic reactions are rare, but as with any substance, hypersensitivity is possible. No significant adverse effects have been reported in the scientific literature regarding its use in food or cosmetics. The FDA considers it Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food.

Regulatory Status

Candelilla wax is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including the United States, the European Union, and Canada. It is regulated under different food additive regulations in each region. In the US, it is considered GRAS. In the EU, it is listed as E902 and is permitted for use in specific food categories at specified levels. The regulatory status reflects the scientific consensus that candelilla wax is safe when used according to good manufacturing practices.