Is Beeswax (E901) Vegan?

Also known as: Cera alba (white beeswax), Cera flava (yellow beeswax)

Not Vegan

Secreted by worker bees to construct honeycomb. Harvested during honey collection; considered an animal product by vegan standards.

Ingredient Data

Vegan Status

Not Vegan

E-Number

E901

Also Known As

Cera alba (white beeswax); Cera flava (yellow beeswax)

Source

Secreted by worker bees to construct honeycomb. Harvested during honey collection; considered an animal product by vegan standards.

Commonly Found In

Lip balm, lipstick, mascara, moisturizers, hair wax, cheese coatings, chocolate confections, furniture polish, candles.

Vegan Alternative

Carnauba wax (E903), Candelilla wax (E902), rice bran wax.

Additional Notes

Extremely common in cosmetics and food glazes. A major hidden non-vegan ingredient. E901 on food labels indicates beeswax.

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