Safety of Beeswax

Botulism spores are present on most raw agricultural commodities at a very low level that are harmless to adults who have well developed immune systems. Some physicians have raised concerns that the low levels of botulism may be a problem for toddlers. Raw agricultural commodities that can contain low levels of botulism spores include apples, strawberries, cherries, carrots....etc and honey. Since honey is the only raw agricultural commodities fed to toddlers, it is frequently mentioned as a raw commodity that should not be given to toddlers, however, the same precaution applies to all raw agricultural commodities. There is no evidence of honey causing infant botulism, but the precautionary statements are frequently included on jars of honey.

I know of no evidence that there is any possibility of botulism spores being present on beeswax, and if present, they would be rendered inactive by the heat required to melt beeswax for incorporation in your product. In summary, I see no evidence that you should be concerned about the safety of beeswax in your product.

Best regards,
Marion Ellis, Professor of Entomology
University of Nebraska