E914 – Oxidised Beeswax as a Food Additive
E914 is an approved food additive based on oxidised beeswax, used as a glazing agent on fruits, confectionery, and other food products.
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E914 is an approved food additive based on oxidised beeswax, used as a glazing agent on fruits, confectionery, and other food products.
What is E914?
E914 refers to oxidised beeswax, a natural food additive obtained through the controlled oxidation of regular beeswax (E901). It belongs to the category of glazing agents and release agents and is used in the food industry as well as in cosmetics. Within the European Union, E914 is approved as a food additive but only for specific applications and food categories.
Origin and Production
Beeswax is produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) and serves as the structural material for honeycombs in the hive. To produce E914, natural beeswax undergoes a controlled oxidation process, during which it is treated with oxygen or ozone. This modifies certain chemical properties of the wax, particularly its consistency and adhesion characteristics. The resulting product is a pale yellow to white, slightly brittle wax.
Uses in Food
E914 is primarily used as a glazing agent to seal the surface of food products and provide a shiny protective coating. Typical applications include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., apples, citrus fruits) – to prevent moisture loss and extend shelf life
- Confectionery and chocolate products – as a shine coating
- Chewing gum – as a release agent and coating
- Dietary supplements in tablet form – as a film coating
In the EU, the use of E914 is regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives and is restricted to specific food categories and maximum permitted levels.
Safety and Tolerability
E914 is considered safe for human consumption when used as intended. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated oxidised beeswax and found no health concerns at the approved usage levels. However, since E914 is derived from natural beeswax, it may be relevant for individuals with a bee product allergy or sensitivity to propolis. People with such allergies should consume products containing E914 with caution.
Vegan Suitability
Since E914 is an animal-derived product – produced by bees – it is not considered vegan. Individuals following a vegan diet should check ingredient labels on processed food products carefully.
Labelling
Foods containing E914 must declare it in the ingredient list in accordance with European labelling regulations, either as E914 or as oxidised beeswax. For unwrapped fresh produce with a wax coating, labelling requirements also apply at the point of sale.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of oxidised beeswax (E 914) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2015.
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives.
- Carocho, M. et al.: Adding molecules to food, pros and cons: A review on synthetic and natural food additives. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 2014.
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