Ingredient · E903

Food Grade Carnauba Wax

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add carnauba wax as a glazing agent, meaning it gives foods a shiny …

What is Food Grade Carnauba Wax?

Food grade carnauba wax is a hard, brittle wax derived from the leaves of the Brazilian palm tree Copernicia prunifera. It is harvested by drying the leaves, then beating them to loosen the wax, which is then refined and purified for food use.

Is Food Grade Carnauba Wax vegan?

Food Grade Carnauba Wax is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Food Grade Carnauba Wax gluten-free?

Carnauba wax is not derived from any of the FDA's nine major allergens and does not contain gluten.

What is Food Grade Carnauba Wax used for?

Manufacturers add carnauba wax as a glazing agent, meaning it gives foods a shiny appearance and helps prevent drying out.

Is Food Grade Carnauba Wax safe?

In the United States, carnauba wax is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add carnauba wax as a glazing agent, meaning it gives foods a shiny appearance and helps prevent drying out. It is often found in baked goods, confectionery, and as a coating for fruits and vegetables.

Health notes

In the United States, carnauba wax is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is not metabolized by the body and passes through undigested, meaning it contributes no calories. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated carnauba wax, and it is approved for use in many countries.

Allergen info

Carnauba wax is not derived from any of the FDA's nine major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Food Grade Carnauba Wax

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.