E912 · Montanic acid esters
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E912?
Montanic acid esters are wax-like compounds derived from montan wax (a mineral wax from lignite/coal), used in food as a glazing agent to give fruits, candy, and coffee beans a protective shiny coating. They are also used in polishes, coatings, and industrial lubricants. They are considered safe for food use at approved levels.
Also appears on labels as: Montanic acid esters, E912, E 912, E-912, INS 912, Esters of montanic acid, Montan wax esters, Montanic wax esters, Long-chain montanic acid esters, Food-grade montanic esters, Montan acid esters, Montanic esters.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels as a glazing agent.
Frequently asked questions
Is E912 safe?
Our overall verdict for E912 (Montanic acid esters) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E912 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Montanic acid esters — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E912 and why is it used?
Montanic acid esters are wax-like compounds derived from montan wax (a mineral wax from lignite/coal), used in food as a glazing agent to give fruits, candy, and coffee beans a protective shiny coating. They are also used in polishes, coatings, and industrial lubricants. They are considered safe for food use at approved levels.
Does E912 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Montanic acid esters.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.