Beeswax

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 09.07.2025

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Synonym(s)

cera alba; cera flava

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Beeswax is a wax that is produced by honey bees (Apis mellifera) using their wax glands. Beeswax is obtained by melting the honeycomb, which has been freed of honey, with hot water. The melted wax is purified until it is of food quality. It is approved in the EU as a food additive under the number E 901

Beeswax is used in food as a filler, carrier, release agent and coating agent. As a coating agent, it prevents moisture loss in fruit, for example. Foods treated with beeswax are labeled as waxed.

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Beeswax is considered harmless. It is indigestible for humans and is excreted unchanged.

Authors

Last updated on: 09.07.2025

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer