Carauba Wax
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What it is
Carnauba wax is a hard, brittle wax derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree (Copernicia prunifera), native to northeastern Brazil. The leaves are dried, and the wax is scraped off and then refined. It is a vegan wax known for its high melting point and glossy finish.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use carnauba wax as a glazing agent or coating to give foods a shiny appearance and to prevent sticking. It helps maintain the shape of candies and provides a protective barrier for fruits and vegetables. It is commonly found in confectionery, baked goods, and chewing gum.
Health notes
Carnauba wax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a food additive. It is not metabolized by the body and passes through undigested. International bodies like JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) have evaluated carnauba wax, and it is permitted for use in many countries. There is no evidence to suggest adverse health effects from its consumption at typical dietary levels.
Allergen info
Carnauba wax is derived from a plant and is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.