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Is Beeswax vegan?

Beeswax

Not Vegan

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) and secreted by worker bees to construct honeycombs. It is obtained by melting the honeycomb with hot water, straining, and cooling. Used extensively in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food coatings, it is listed as E901 in the EU. It is exclusively insect-derived.

Also known as Apis mellifera wax, Cera alba, Cera flava, White beeswax, Yellow beeswax
E number E901
CAS number 8012-89-3
EC number 232-383-7
Last reviewed 16 April 2026

Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.