FlavScents AInsights Entry for Hydrolyzed Beeswax (CAS: 223705-74-6)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Hydrolyzed Beeswax
- CAS Number: 223705-74-6
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula and Molecular Weight: Not applicable as it is a complex natural material
- Discussion: Hydrolyzed beeswax is a derivative of natural beeswax, processed to enhance its solubility and functionality in various applications. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of fatty acids and esters resulting from the hydrolysis of beeswax. This material is valued for its emollient properties and is used in both flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
- Odor and Flavor Descriptors: Hydrolyzed beeswax has a mild, sweet, and honey-like aroma with a subtle waxy undertone. Its flavor profile is similarly mild, contributing a soft, sweet, and slightly floral note.
- Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Data not found.
- Typical Sensory Role: In formulations, hydrolyzed beeswax serves as a background realism enhancer, providing a natural and subtle sweetness that complements other flavor and fragrance components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
- Known Natural Sources: Beeswax is naturally produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) and is a key component of honeycombs.
- Formation Pathways: Hydrolyzed beeswax is formed through the hydrolysis of natural beeswax, breaking down its complex esters into more soluble fatty acids and alcohols.
- Relevance to "Natural Flavor" or "Natural Fragrance" Designation: As a derivative of natural beeswax, hydrolyzed beeswax can be considered a natural ingredient in flavor and fragrance formulations, depending on the processing methods and regulatory definitions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
- Flavor Categories and Applications: Hydrolyzed beeswax is used in a variety of flavor applications, including confectionery, bakery, and dairy products, where it imparts a subtle sweetness and enhances mouthfeel.
- Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a flavor modifier and stabilizer, contributing to the overall texture and sensory experience of the product.
- Typical Use Levels: Industry-typical use levels range from 10 to 100 ppm in finished food products, depending on the desired effect and product type.
- Stability Considerations: Hydrolyzed beeswax is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations. However, it may be susceptible to oxidation if not properly stored.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
- Fragrance Families and Product Types: Hydrolyzed beeswax is used in various fragrance applications, including personal care products, candles, and air fresheners, where it contributes a natural, honey-like aroma.
- Functional Role: It serves as a base note, providing depth and longevity to fragrance compositions.
- Typical Concentration Ranges: Use levels in fragrance formulations typically range from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.
- Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: Hydrolyzed beeswax primarily contributes to the base notes of a fragrance, offering a long-lasting and subtle aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Hydrolyzed beeswax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products.
- European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL Number Status): Approved for use in food and fragrance applications, subject to specific purity criteria.
- United Kingdom: Regulatory status aligns with the EU post-Brexit.
- Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Generally permitted in food and fragrance applications, but specific regulations may vary by country.
- Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Permitted for use, with regulations similar to those in the US and EU.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Hydrolyzed beeswax is considered safe for consumption at typical use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. It is non-toxic and non-carcinogenic.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in personal care products.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility minimizes inhalation risks, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
- Risk Profiles: No significant differences in risk profiles between food and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
- Value: Hydrolyzed beeswax is prized for its natural origin and multifunctional properties, enhancing both flavor and fragrance formulations.
- Typical Synergies: It pairs well with other natural ingredients, such as honey and floral notes, to create cohesive and appealing sensory profiles.
- Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overly waxy texture or aroma, while underuse may result in a lack of desired sweetness or depth.
- Situations of Over/Under-Use: Often under-utilized in low-fat or reduced-calorie products where its textural benefits could be advantageous.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
- Well-Established Data: The safety and functionality of hydrolyzed beeswax are well-documented in both flavor and fragrance applications.
- Industry-Typical Practices: Usage levels and applications are based on industry norms and historical usage patterns.
- Known Data Gaps: Specific sensory thresholds and detailed compositional data are limited, necessitating reliance on empirical formulation experience.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-09-24 05:44:13 GMT (p2)