Is Beeswax (E901) Halal?

Beeswax comes from honeycomb. Honey and beeswax themselves are permissible, but commercial beeswax glazes are often bleached and blended with other waxes or coatings, and processed with agents not identified by the E-number, which is why MUIS lists E901 as doubtful. It glazes sweets, coated nuts and fruit.

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to build their honeycomb. The yellow form is unbleached; white beeswax is purified and bleached. It is used as a glazing agent and food coating.

• candy coatings
• fruit waxing (apples, citrus)
• chocolate confectionery
• chewing gum
• cheese rinds

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

carnauba wax (E903), candelilla wax (E902), rice bran wax

E901 (Beeswax) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to build their honeycomb.

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to build their honeycomb. The yellow form is unbleached; white beeswax is purified and bleached. It is used as a glazing agent and food coating.

E901 is commonly found in candy coatings, fruit waxing (apples, citrus), chocolate confectionery, chewing gum, and cheese rinds.