Beeswax and its future

Sustainability has become a familiar concept for many people. This causes new trends to emerge, including the demand for 'green' products and raw materials. As a result, companies are showing more and more interest in products from natural sources that have less impact on the environment. A telling example of this is beeswax.

Added value    

Beeswax is a solid substance, which is created by honeybees. By using its glands, the bee's wax produces platelets and these form the honeycomb in which the honey is stored. Beeswax has traditionally been used as a glazing and gelling agent in food (E-901). In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used to soften and calm the skin. Beeswax is also increasingly found in the non-food and pharmaceutical industries. For example, coatings for wood (floor and furniture waxes), detergents and preservatives (floor polish).  

Research  

Several studies claim that beeswax has several functionalities. For example, one study shows that beeswax is a good alternative to replace plastic packaging. There is also a study that shows that emulsion of beeswax also makes it available as a coating. Both studies show that beeswax serves as an antioxidant and is water-repellent and biodegradable.  

The Monchy International 

Innovative and sustainable developments for natural raw materials such as beeswax are extremely important within our company. Our specialists closely follow these trends. For example, we see demand rising for other natural waxes, such as soy wax, carnauba wax, rice wax, coconut wax and waxes from waste streams.

If you are interested in beeswax as a sustainable solution for your product, please contact our specialist James Meacock.