E 903 Carnauba wax

What is E 903?

E 903 is the E number of Carnauba wax. Plant wax from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm. It gives sweets, dragées and fruit a shine.

Where is E 903 most commonly used?

Carnauba wax mainly gives fruit gums, dragées and chocolate beans their shine. It is also used to coat fruit such as citrus fruit.

What is E 903 used for?

E 903 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as glazing agent, carrier.

• Glazing agent: Glazing agents give the surface a shiny appearance or a protective coating.
• Carrier: Carriers dissolve, dilute or disperse other additives, flavourings or nutrients without having a technical effect themselves.

Which foods may contain E 903?

According to the European Commission's database, E 903 may be used in 11 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Bakery wares
• Eggs and egg products
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Food supplements

Is E 903 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 903 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 903 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Glazing agent: E 903" or "Glazing agent: Carnauba wax".