E902: Candelilla Wax
Main role: glazing and coating
Also listed as: candelilla plant wax
What is E902 (Candelilla Wax)?
Candelilla wax is a plant wax used to form coatings and improve surface appearance. Its physical properties differ from beeswax and carnauba wax, making the precise ingredient name useful.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is glazing and coating. A glazing ingredient acts mainly at the food’s surface. Its role can be appearance, protection, or handling. Different waxes and coating materials have different origins and food-use specifications.
Food and formulation examples
- Confectionery coatings
- Food supplement coatings
- Authorized surface treatments
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E902, E 902, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include candelilla plant wax. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The plant origin of one glazing ingredient does not establish that the complete product is vegan. Check other coatings, colors, and compound ingredients as well.
Is E902 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E902 as Candelilla wax. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.