Beeswax specification
is a natural wax or bees wax produce by honey bees. Chemically, beeswax consists mainly of esters of fatty acids and various long-chain alcohols. The hive workers collect and use it to form cells for honey-storage and larval and pupil protection within the beehive.
Beeswax has different applications in human food and flavoring. For example, it is used as a glazing agent, a sweetener, or as a light/heat source. It is approve for food use in most countries and the European Union.
The wax is form by worker bees, which secrete it from eight wax-producing mirror glands on the inner sides of the sternites the sizes of these wax glands depend on the age of the worker, and after many daily flights, these glands begin to gradually atrophy.
The new wax is initially glass-clear and bright
Also, the wax becomes progressively more yellow or brown by incorporation of pollen oils and propolis . The wax scales are about 3mm (0.12in) across and 0.1mm (0.0039 in) thick and about 1100 are required to make a gram of wax.
Honey bees use the beeswax to build honeycomb cells in which their young are raise with honey and pollen cells ready for storage. For the wax-making bees to secrete wax, the ambient temperature in the hive must be 33 deg;C to 36C (91deg;F to 97deg;F).
The amount of honey used by bees to produce wax has not been accurately determine. The book, Beeswax Production, Harvesting, Processing and Products, suggests 1 pound of beeswax is used to store 22 pounds honey.
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees
It is secreted by special glands on their abdomen and used to build the honeycomb structures where bees store honey and pollen, and where the queen bee lays her eggs. The wax is typically yellow to brown and has a sweet, honey-like scent.
Beeswax is highly valued for its various uses, which include:
-
Cosmetics and skincare: Beeswax is a common ingredient in products like lip balms, lotions, and creams due to its moisturizing and protective properties. It helps to lock in moisture and create a barrier against the elements.
-
Candles: Beeswax candles are a natural alternative to paraffin candles. They burn longer, produce less soot, and emit a subtle, sweet fragrance. Beeswax candles also release negative ions, which can help purify the air.
-
Food wraps: Beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, used for storing food. They are reusable and can help keep food fresh without harmful chemicals.
-
Polishes and coatings: Beeswax is used in furniture polish, leather care products, and as a coating for cheese, as it is non-toxic and water-resistant.
-
Medicinal uses: It is sometimes use in ointments, salves, and balms to soothe skin and promote healing, due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
-
Crafting: Beeswax is also use in art, such as encaustic painting, where it is mix with pigments and heated to create texture, durable artworks.
Its versatility and natural properties make beeswax a sought-after material in various industries, particularly those focused on sustainability.