Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honey bees in their hives. Bees secrete the wax from glands on their abdomens, and worker bees use it to build the honeycomb structure where honey is stored and young bees are raised. It is typically off-white to yellow and has a mild honey-like odor.

Beeswax is used as a glazing agent and to provide texture in foods. It helps to give products a shiny appearance and can add a waxy mouthfeel. It is commonly found in candies, chewing gum, and baked goods like cookies.

In the United States, beeswax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is not known to cause adverse health effects at the levels typically consumed in food. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated beeswax, and EFSA has also assessed its safety. No significant health controversies are associated with its use in typical food amounts.