The purpose of wax in gummy bear production
The glossy sheen on a gummy bear is more than just for show; it serves several critical functions in commercial candy production. Without this coating, gummies would likely clump together in the bag due to their moist, gelatinous nature. The wax acts as a non-stick barrier, ensuring each piece remains separate and easy to handle.
Beyond aesthetics: The practical benefits of a wax coating
- Moisture control: The wax coating creates a protective layer that locks moisture inside the gummy, preventing it from drying out and becoming hard over time. This is crucial for maintaining the desired chewy texture. Conversely, it also prevents gummies from becoming too moist in humid environments.
- Extended shelf life: By controlling moisture and acting as a barrier against external elements, the wax contributes significantly to the product's overall shelf life.
- Enhanced appearance: A shiny, polished appearance makes the candy more visually appealing to consumers. This is achieved by tumbling the gummies in a mixture of wax and oil.
The two most common food-grade waxes
The waxes used on gummy bears and other candies are specifically chosen for their properties and safety. The two most prominent are carnauba wax and beeswax. Both are considered food-grade and safe for consumption by regulatory bodies such as the FDA.
Carnauba wax: The vegan-friendly shine
Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based wax sourced from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree in Brazil. It is one of the hardest natural waxes and is valued for producing a very high, durable gloss. Because of its plant origin, it is a preferred option for manufacturers catering to vegan and vegetarian markets. When applied to candies like gummy bears, it creates a waterproof layer that extends shelf life.
Beeswax: The traditional glazer
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees to construct their honeycombs. In confectionery, it is used as a glazing agent to add smoothness and shine. Beeswax is softer than carnauba wax and offers a slightly different, smoother texture to the candy's exterior. As an animal-derived product, it makes gummies unsuitable for vegan consumers.
How the wax coating is applied
The application of the wax coating is a final step in the manufacturing process. After the candies are molded and dried (cured), they are tumbled in large, rotating pans. A mixture of wax and oil is sprayed onto the tumbling candies, coating them evenly. This ensures every gummy receives a thin, uniform, and polished finish.
Comparison of wax and non-wax coatings
| Feature | Wax Coating (e.g., Carnauba/Beeswax) | Sugar/Citric Acid Coating | Cornstarch Coating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | High gloss and shine | Sparkly or matte | Matte |
| Purpose | Prevents sticking, extends shelf life, enhances visual appeal | Adds a tangy flavor, crunchy texture, and prevents sticking | Absorbs moisture for a matte, non-sticky finish |
| Texture | Smooth and slick | Crunchy and sandy | Dry and frosted |
| Dietary | Depends on wax source (carnauba is vegan, beeswax is not) | Typically vegan (check for other ingredients) | Typically vegan (check for other ingredients) |
| Process | Tumbling candies with a wax/oil mixture | Tumbling candies with granulated sugar/citric acid | Tumbling candies with cornstarch/powdered sugar mix |
Vegan and vegetarian alternatives
For those who adhere to vegan or vegetarian diets, it's important to check the ingredient list for beeswax, often labeled as E901. Many brands now offer vegan-friendly gummies that use plant-based alternatives for gelling and glazing.
- Vegan gelling agents: Pectin (from fruits) or agar-agar (from seaweed) are common substitutes for gelatin, giving the gummy a chewy texture.
- Vegan glazing agents: Carnauba wax is a popular choice for vegan gummies to achieve a shiny finish, as it is plant-derived.
- Vegan brands: The market for vegan-friendly candies has grown significantly, and many brands now explicitly label their products as such.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Is there wax in gummy bears?"—yes, many commercial brands do use a small amount of food-grade wax. This coating is not for flavor, but serves practical purposes like preventing sticking and preserving freshness. The most common waxes, carnauba wax and beeswax, are safe to consume and approved by regulatory bodies. However, consumers with specific dietary needs, such as vegans, should check ingredient labels for the type of wax used. The presence of wax is simply part of a standard confectionery process to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting product.
