E913 · Lanolin
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E913?
Lanolin is a natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals, primarily sheep, and is recovered by washing raw wool. Highly purified food-grade lanolin (or its fatty-acid derivatives) is used as a glazing agent, lubricant, or emulsifier, for example as a protective coating on fruit or in chewing gum bases. It gives products gloss and helps reduce moisture loss.
Also appears on labels as: Lanolin, Wool wax, Wool alcohol, Cholesterol ester wax, Hydrated lanolin, Anhydrous lanolin, Lanolin oil, Lanolin alcohol, Eusolex, E913, E 913, E-913.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at approved levels for food use.
- Allergic and contact-dermatitis reactions are associated mainly with topical/cosmetic use rather than food-grade ingestion, though highly sensitive individuals should be aware of the source.
Frequently asked questions
Is E913 safe?
Our overall verdict for E913 (Lanolin) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E913 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Lanolin — vegan: no, vegetarian: yes, halal: no, kosher: no, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E913 and why is it used?
Lanolin is a natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals, primarily sheep, and is recovered by washing raw wool. Highly purified food-grade lanolin (or its fatty-acid derivatives) is used as a glazing agent, lubricant, or emulsifier, for example as a protective coating on fruit or in chewing gum bases. It gives products gloss and helps reduce moisture loss.
Does E913 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Lanolin, though some people report sensitivity (Can cause contact dermatitis on skin in sensitive individuals when applied topically; ingestion-related reactions to purified food-grade lanolin are very rare.).
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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.