Digestoa
Additive · Glazing agent

Carnauba wax (E903)

Carnauba wax (E903) is a glazing agent that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskNo known risk
TypeGlazing agent
Found inshiny sweets, chocolates and coated confectionery

What is Carnauba wax?

Carnauba wax (E903) is a glazing agent — used to give a shiny, protective coating.

Is Carnauba wax bad for you?

Carnauba wax is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Carnauba wax?

Shiny sweets, chocolates and coated confectionery.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Carnauba wax. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Choose less-processed products with short, recognisable ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E903 the same as Carnauba wax?
Yes — E903 is the international additive (E-number) code for Carnauba wax.
Is Carnauba wax bad for you?
Digestoa rates Carnauba wax (E903) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Carnauba wax?
No significant side effects are associated with Carnauba wax at the levels used in food.
What foods contain Carnauba wax?
Shiny sweets, chocolates and coated confectionery.
How can I avoid Carnauba wax?
Check the ingredients list for "Carnauba wax" or "E903", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related glazing agent additives

Beeswax (E901)Shellac (E904)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.