Appears safe based on current evidence
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax (E914) is rated "Appears Safe" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax?
Fruit and vegetable coating
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is classified as a Glazing Agent additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedUS name: Oxidized Polyethylene Wax
Approved for fruit coating
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
ApprovedFruit and vegetable coating
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is classified as a glazing agent in the food additive regulatory framework. Current scientific evidence supports its safety when consumed within established limits. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax safe?
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax has a safety rating of "Appears Safe". Appears safe based on current evidence
Is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax vegan?
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax banned in Europe?
No, Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is Approved in the EU.
What is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax made from?
Fruit and vegetable coating
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax safe?
Is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax banned in any country?
What is Oxidised Polyethylene Wax used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
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