Lanolin
Also known as: E913, sheep wool grease, wool wax, wool grease
Lanolin (E913) is authorised in the EU for limited food applications - notably chewing gum and as a carrier/source for vitamin D3 derived from sheep wool grease. EFSA reviewed lanolin and concluded that exposure from authorised use is not of safety concern.
What it is
Lanolin - a wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep, refined for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and limited industrial use.
Glazing agent and carrier for fat-soluble nutrients (e.g., vitamin D3 produced from lanolin); coating for chewing-gum bases (E913 in EU is permitted in chewing gum only).
Why it's flagged
- potential pesticide residues if refining inadequate
- rare allergic contact dermatitis (topical)
What regulators actually say
"EFSA Panel concluded that the use of lanolin (E 913) in chewing gum at the maximum permitted level does not raise safety concerns."
"Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 lists lanolin (E 913) as authorised for use as a glazing agent in chewing gum."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA permits cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) from lanolin; lanolin itself in chewing gum bases.
European Union — EFSA
Authorised E913 for chewing gum; vitamin D3 from lanolin authorised novel ingredient.
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