Carnauba Wax And Neotame

Carnauba wax is a hard, brittle wax derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree, native to Brazil. It is harvested by drying and beating the leaves, then refining the wax. Neotame is an artificial sweetener, a derivative of the amino acids aspartic acid and phenylalanine, made through a chemical synthesis process.

Carnauba wax acts as a glazing agent, giving shine and hardness to products like chewing gum and candies. Neotame is used as a high-intensity sweetener, providing sweetness with very few calories. It is often found in sugar-free gums, mints, and other confectionery items.

Carnauba wax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. Neotame is also approved by the FDA as a high-intensity sweetener. Both are used in very small amounts. JECFA has evaluated neotame and established an acceptable daily intake. There are no significant health controversies associated with either ingredient at typical consumption levels.