Not All Waxes Are Created Equal
Many different types of wax exist, and their origin and processing determine if they are safe to be near or in the mouth. Confusing them can lead to unpleasant or even dangerous health outcomes. At its core, the difference is between a non-food-grade product and a highly-refined food-grade substance that is part of a complex formulation, like a gum base.
Non-Food-Grade Waxes: A Serious Health Hazard
Candles, crayons, and other household waxes are designed for industrial or creative applications, not human consumption. They may contain dyes, scents, and other chemical additives that are toxic. While accidentally consuming a small amount may pass through the system without issue, ingesting a larger amount or making a habit of chewing it is dangerous.
- Candle Wax: Often made from paraffin (a petroleum byproduct), soy, or beeswax, candle wax contains additives that can cause allergic reactions, upset stomach, or, in larger quantities, intestinal blockage.
- Crayons: These are primarily made of paraffin wax, but also include pigments and other ingredients that are not meant for human digestion. Large quantities can cause intestinal obstruction.
- Dental Wax: While dental wax (often made from paraffin or beeswax) is non-toxic and used in the mouth for orthodontic purposes, it should not be chewed or swallowed regularly. It can still cause stomach upset or blockage if ingested in large quantities.
Food-Grade Waxes: Chewable, but Not Digestible
Certain waxes are specially processed to be non-toxic and safe for contact with food. They are used in small amounts in food products, such as coatings for candy or fruit, or as part of a gum base.
- Wax Candy: Novelty treats like Nik-L-Nips feature flavored, liquid-filled wax bottles made from food-grade paraffin. The fun is in drinking the sweet syrup and perhaps chewing the wax, but the wax itself is not meant to be swallowed, as it is non-digestible.
- Chewing Gum Base: Modern gum is not simply made of wax. Its base is a complex formulation that includes elastomers for stretch, resins for texture, and waxes to soften the mix. Food-grade waxes like microcrystalline, candelilla, or carnauba wax are used, but they are an ingredient, not the full product.
- Beeswax: Pure, natural beeswax is generally considered edible and safe in small quantities, such as what is found in honeycomb. It has been used traditionally for chewing. However, large chunks can still cause digestive issues, and the quality of the wax is critical to ensure it is free of contaminants.
Chewing Gum vs. Chewing Wax: A Comparison
There are stark differences between the experience, safety, and purpose of chewing gum and chewing wax. Chewing gum is engineered for a specific texture and flavor release, while chewing wax is an incomplete, and potentially dangerous, imitation.
| Feature | Chewing Gum | Chewing Wax |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Complex base of elastomers, resins, food-grade waxes, sweeteners, and flavorings. | Varies widely. Can be food-grade paraffin (wax candy), beeswax, or non-food-grade paraffin (candle wax). |
| Digestibility | Non-digestible gum base, but formulated to be safe to pass through the system if accidentally swallowed in small amounts. | Also non-digestible. Food-grade wax is generally non-toxic but can cause digestive issues or intestinal blockage if large amounts are ingested. |
| Flavor Release | Designed for sustained flavor release from added flavor compounds and sweeteners. | Limited flavor, often just a remnant from syrup (in wax candy) or a slight sweetness (in beeswax). Flavor fades quickly. |
| Mouthfeel | Elastic, soft, and pliable due to the specific elastomer and wax blend. | Harder, more brittle, and less satisfying than gum. Can become grainy. |
| Safety | Considered safe for chewing and accidental swallowing of small pieces. | Safety depends on the wax type. Household wax is unsafe. Even food-grade wax should not be swallowed. |
The Dangers of Chewing Unintended Wax
Putting non-food-grade wax in your mouth carries several potential risks. These are not limited to just accidental ingestion but also include potential damage from additives and contaminants.
- Intestinal Blockage: Chewing and swallowing a significant amount of any non-digestible wax can lead to intestinal obstruction, a serious medical condition requiring professional attention.
- Toxicity from Additives: The dyes and fragrances in candles or other waxes are not regulated for consumption and may be toxic or cause severe allergic reactions.
- Contaminants in Natural Waxes: Even seemingly harmless natural waxes like beeswax can contain impurities if not properly purified. Consuming large, unprocessed chunks is not advisable.
Conclusion
While you can technically chew on certain types of wax, the answer to whether you should is complex and depends heavily on the source. Chewing on food-grade wax found in novelty candies is a well-established practice, but the wax should always be discarded and never swallowed due to digestive risks. The act of chewing non-food-grade wax, like that from a candle, is not recommended under any circumstances due to the presence of potentially toxic additives and the risk of intestinal blockage. A true chewing gum offers a much safer, more flavorful, and more satisfying experience, thanks to its specialized composition. In all cases, if you have concerns about a specific wax or have ingested a large quantity, it is always best to consult a medical professional. For more general information on wax safety, the MedlinePlus resource on wax poisoning can be helpful.
The Proper Way to Chew Edible Waxes
For those indulging in wax candies, here's how to do it correctly:
- Enjoy the Liquid: Bite off the top of the wax bottle or stick and drink the sweet liquid inside first.
- Chew, but Don't Swallow: After the juice is gone, you can chew the remaining food-grade wax, similar to gum.
- Discard Responsibly: Once you're done chewing, spit out the wax and dispose of it properly, just as you would with chewing gum.
Following these steps ensures you enjoy the nostalgic treat without the associated health risks of ingesting the wax.
What to Do If You've Chewed and Swallowed Wax
If you have accidentally chewed and swallowed wax, your course of action depends on the amount and type of wax.
- Small Amount of Non-Toxic Wax (e.g., dental wax): Don't panic. For small amounts, especially of non-toxic types like dental wax, it will likely pass through your digestive system without any trouble. Stay calm and wait for nature to take its course.
- Small Amount of Candle Wax: Wipe the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give the person water to drink. Observe for symptoms.
- Large Amount or Toxic Wax: In cases where a significant amount has been swallowed, or if the wax was non-food-grade (like a scented candle), seek medical help. This is especially important if symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting occur. Calling a poison control center is a recommended step.
