E912Glazing agentLow concern
Montan Acid Esters
In plain words
The short version
Hard wax esters used to shine and seal the skin of fresh citrus and other fruit.
Why it's green
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
01Origin
Where it comes from
Esters of montan wax acids, derived from lignite (brown coal).
02Usage
How it's used
A surface coating giving shine and a moisture barrier on fresh citrus and some other fruit (applied to the peel).
03Safety
Safety profile
No ADI specified; a surface coating not intended to be eaten.
04Properties
Physical & chemical properties
Hard wax esters.
05Regulation
Regulation worldwide
EU — permitted for fruit-surface treatment; permitted in the US with limits.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.