surface coating agents, gases, sweeteners

E903 — Carnauba Wax

Glazing agent - high-shine coating on confectionery, fruit and cars

Also known as: Palm Wax · Brazil Wax · Carnauba Wax

Permissible

Yes — Halal

Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

Function Glazing agent - high-shine coating on confectionery, fruit and cars
Found in confectionery, chewing gum & more
Source leaves of the carnauba palm tree (plant)

School of Thought Breakdown

Hanafi

Permitted

Maliki

Permitted

Shafi'i

Permitted

Hanbali

Permitted

Plant-derived wax - halal. A good halal alternative to shellac (E904).

What to do with this product

Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2

1

Safe to consume

E903 is permissible across all major schools of Islamic thought. No further verification is needed for this specific additive.

Permissible — no verification required
2

Still check the rest of the ingredients list

Other E-codes on the same label may have a different halal status. Use our database or scanner to verify each one.

Always verify the complete label

You're all clear for this additive

E903 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.

Scan the full label →
Background & Details

About E903

Miscellaneous - glazing agents Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

What is E903 made from?

  • leaves of the carnauba palm tree (plant)

Foods that commonly contain E903

Food Category Guide

E903 is common in confectionery — see the full halal guide →

confectionery chewing gum some fruit coatings vitamin supplements

Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E903 (Carnauba Wax) halal?

E903 (Carnauba Wax) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

What is E903 used for?

E903 is used as a glazing agent - high-shine coating on confectionery, fruit and cars in food products.

What foods contain E903?

E903 (Carnauba Wax) is commonly found in: confectionery, chewing gum, some fruit coatings, vitamin supplements.

What is E903 made from?

E903 can be derived from the following sources: leaves of the carnauba palm tree (plant).

What are the other names for E903?

E903 may appear on food labels as: Palm Wax, Brazil Wax, Carnauba Wax.

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This information is for educational purposes only. For religious rulings, consult a qualified Islamic scholar or halal certification authority. E-code classifications may vary by source, manufacturing process, and school of thought.