Ingredient · Updated

Carnauba Wax

Neutral in 21

Found in 21 productsSee all

What is Carnauba Wax?

Carnauba Wax is a natural wax derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm, a tree native to Brazil. It is known for its hardness and high melting point, making it useful in various products as a coating agent.

In the food industry, carnauba wax is often used as a glazing agent or surface finish for candies and other confections to provide them with a shiny appearance. It is also used in non-food products like cosmetics and personal care items such as lip balms and deodorants for its emollient properties. Health evidence suggests that it is generally considered safe when used in typical amounts found in foods, though it provides no nutritional value.

When you see Carnauba Wax on a label, it's typically indicative of its role in improving texture and appearance rather than nutritional content.

Commonly found in: Candy, Deodorant, Lip Care, Feminine Care, Makeup

FDA

Carnauba Wax is recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.

Research

There is minimal research indicating significant health risks or benefits, as it is generally considered inert in typical usage amounts.

Vegan

Carnauba Wax is plant-derived and typically accepted as vegan-friendly.

Sources: Code of Federal Regulations

Scout's take

Natural plant wax used as a glazing agent — inert.

The case for

Provides a shiny appearance to food products.

from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail Mix

More from Scout's analyses

Carnauba wax is used as a glazing agent to provide a shiny appearance. It is derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm. It is considered safe for consumption in small amounts.

from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail Mix

Carnauba wax is a natural plant wax used as a coating or stabilizer, generally regarded as safe for food and supplement use.

from the analysis of Member's Mark Magnesium Glycinate

All 21 products with Carnauba Wax

Where Carnauba Wax shows up

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