# Petroleum Wax, Synthetic (E905)

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**E-number:** E905
**CAS number:** 977045-73-0
**Category:** other
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Petroleum Wax, Synthetic (CAS 977045-73-4) is a man-made wax derived from petroleum hydrocarbons, used in food as a masticatory substance and surface-active agent. It functions primarily in chewing gum and similar products to provide texture and coating properties.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Petroleum Wax, Synthetic?

Petroleum Wax, Synthetic is a hydrocarbon-based wax produced through chemical synthesis from petroleum derivatives. Unlike natural waxes derived from plants or animals, synthetic petroleum wax is engineered to achieve consistent physical and chemical properties. It exists as a solid at room temperature with a melting point typically between 70-100°C, depending on the specific formulation. The synthetic nature allows manufacturers to control molecular weight, crystalline structure, and purity more precisely than with naturally occurring waxes.

## Common Uses

In food applications, Petroleum Wax, Synthetic functions as a masticatory substance, primarily found in chewing gum formulations. It contributes to the gum's texture, elasticity, and chewing characteristics. The additive also serves as a surface-active agent, helping to coat food surfaces or stabilize emulsions in certain food products. In some confectionery items, it may be used to provide a glossy coating or prevent sticking. The additive is not intended to be nutritious or provide functional benefits beyond texture and appearance.

## Safety Assessment

As a food additive, Petroleum Wax, Synthetic is intended for limited ingestion, primarily through chewing gum where it is not typically swallowed in significant quantities. The FDA has not granted this substance GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, which reflects the limited data available or specific regulatory classification rather than a safety concern. According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported associated with this additive and zero product recalls linked to its use. This absence of reported harm provides some reassurance regarding its historical safety profile in food applications.

The toxicological profile of synthetic petroleum waxes is generally considered low-concern due to their high molecular weight hydrocarbons, which are poorly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. Most ingested material would transit through the digestive system with minimal absorption. However, the lack of extensive modern safety studies means long-term effects cannot be definitively characterized. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated various petroleum-derived waxes, though specific determinations vary by formulation and intended use.

## Regulatory Status

Petroleum Wax, Synthetic is regulated in the United States as a food additive but operates without GRAS status, meaning it falls under the FDA's food additive petition and approval framework for specific uses. It is approved for use in certain food categories, particularly chewing gum and similar masticatory products, where intentional ingestion is not the primary endpoint. Different countries maintain varying approval statuses; it is permitted in some jurisdictions for food use while others may have restrictions or require specific purity standards.

Manufacturers using this additive must comply with specifications regarding purity, mineral oil content, and contaminant levels. The additive must meet established identity and function criteria defined in food chemical codices such as the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC).

## Key Studies

Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically examine Petroleum Wax, Synthetic in food applications. Available toxicological data on related petroleum-derived hydrocarbons suggest minimal systemic absorption when consumed in typical food use amounts. Regulatory agencies have determined acceptable use levels based on animal studies and chemical properties rather than extensive human clinical trials, which is standard practice for non-nutritive food additives with low bioavailability.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Petroleum Wax, Synthetic (E905) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/petroleum-wax-synthetic. Accessed 2026-05-19.