Is E903 halal?

What is E903?

Carnauba wax is a hard plant wax taken from the leaves and leaf buds of the carnauba palm, which grows in Brazil. The wax is removed from the dried leaves, then melted and purified. In food it gives sweets and fruit a firm, glossy coating.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It comes only from palm leaves, so no animal, insect or alcohol is involved. It is one of the plant-based alternatives to shellac for shiny coatings, which is useful if you want to avoid glazes made from insects.

How to check the label

No check is needed for carnauba wax itself. A sweet may list several glazing agents together, so read the whole list for shellac (E904).

Where you'll find it

• coated sweets
• chewing gum
• chocolate-coated snacks
• fresh fruit coatings

Good to know

• JECFA set an acceptable daily intake of 0 to 7 mg/kg body weight. EFSA's 2012 re-evaluation found that authorised uses raise no safety concern.
• It melts at about 82 to 86 °C, much higher than beeswax at 62 to 65 °C, which helps coatings stay firm.

Similar additives

• E100 Curcumin Generally halal
• E153 Vegetable carbon Generally halal
• E160b Annatto Generally halal
• E160c Paprika extract Generally halal
• E162 Beetroot red Generally halal
• E163 Anthocyanins Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EU additive specifications, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 (E 903)
2. JECFA evaluation of carnauba wax (INCHEM)
3. EFSA re-evaluation of carnauba wax E 903 (2012), AGRIS record

Frequently asked questions