Is Beeswax (E901) Vegan?

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.

Notes

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