What is Paraffin Wax?

What is paraffin wax and why is it in my chocolate candy recipe? Is it edible? Where can I find it?

Paraffin wax, classified as a chemical preservative, is widely used on fruits, vegetables, and candy to make them shiny and pretty as well as to retard moisture loss and spoilage.

Waxes are made from vegetable oils, palm oil derivatives, and synthetic resins, as well as other materials.

Some people, notably those who are allergic to aspirin, may be sensitive to many waxes, depending on their ingredients.

Yes, it is edible. Paraffin wax is often added to chocolates. You can find paraffin wax, also sometimes called baker's wax or canning wax, in your grocery store where canning jars and supplies are sold.

However, some paraffin is not intended to be ingested, such as that sold for candlemaking, so check the label.