Beeswax

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Synonym(s)

cera alba; cera flava

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Beeswax is a wax produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) by means of their wax glands. Beeswax is obtained by melting honeycombs freed from honey with hot water. The melted out wax is cleaned until it is of food quality. It is approved in the EU under the number E 901 as a food additive

Beeswax is used in food technology as a filler, carrier, release agent and coating agent. As a coating agent, it prevents moisture loss, for example in fruit. Foodstuffs treated with beeswax carry the note 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: 29.10.2020

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer