Chloe Adams
Candles are sometimes vegan, but it is not always obvious when looking at a candle what substance has been used to produce it. The primary ingredient of most candles is paraffin wax, a petroleum derivative that is too soft to make a good candle on its own. To harden the wax, paraffin candles usually contain stearic acid, which often comes from animal fat. Some candles contain beeswax, which is also not vegan. However, there are plenty of vegan-friendly candles available to purchase, made from soy, coconut wax, or other vegetable waxes. These candles are usually labelled as vegan and can be found at specialist candle makers or vegan retailers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegan wax options | Soy wax, coconut wax, vegetable wax |
| Non-vegan wax | Beeswax, paraffin wax, tallow |
| Vegan wicks | Natural cotton wicks |
| Non-vegan wicks | Heavy metals like lead |
| Vegan fragrances | Patchouli, amber, tobacco leaf, vanilla bean, sandalwood, Egyptian musk, palo santo |
| Vegan packaging | Recycled boxes, glass jars with metal lids |
| Non-vegan fragrances | May contain animal products |
| Vegan certifications | May be labelled or carry an emblem |
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What You'll Learn
- Paraffin wax is usually derived from petroleum, but it often contains stearic acid, which is often animal-based
- Beeswax is not vegan, as it is a bee product
- Soy wax is a vegan alternative to paraffin wax
- Coconut wax is another vegan option that holds added scents and colours well
- Some candle wicks are made from heavy metals like lead
Paraffin wax is usually derived from petroleum, but it often contains stearic acid, which is often animal-based
Veganism is a way of living that seeks to eliminate, as far as possible, all forms of exploitation and cruelty towards animals. Vegans avoid consuming animal products not only in their diet but also in other aspects of their lives, including clothing, cosmetics, and household items.
Paraffin wax is usually derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource mined from the earth. It is made from a petroleum-based by-product, which is why it is considered vegan-friendly. However, in order for it to function as a candle, paraffin wax often contains stearic acid, which is often animal-based. Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid that primarily consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. It is classified as a long-chain fatty acid due to its 18 carbon atoms. Traditionally, stearic acid was derived from animal fats, typically obtained from cows, pigs, or sheep. The process involved extracting the fatty acids from the animal's adipose tissue, which was then further processed to obtain stearic acid.
With advancements in technology and alternative methods, the use of animal sources for stearic acid has become less common. Manufacturers now explore alternative options to meet the growing demand for vegan-friendly products. Common plant sources for stearic acid include cocoa butter, shea butter, palm oil, and vegetable oils. These plant-derived sources offer an animal-friendly option for obtaining stearic acid without compromising vegan principles.
Some people may be concerned about the environmental impact of paraffin wax, as it is not considered environmentally friendly due to its non-renewable nature and energy-intensive production process.
When considering vegan alternatives to paraffin wax, options include soy wax, coconut wax, and palm wax. These waxes are renewable, sustainable, and do not contain animal products.
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Beeswax is not vegan, as it is a bee product
While candles add a soothing and calming element to any space, it is important to consider their vegan suitability and safety. Vegan candles are generally made from soy, coconut, or other vegetable waxes. However, beeswax candles are not considered vegan.
Beeswax is a substance secreted by bees, similar to how humans sweat. It is produced by the mirror glands on the underside of worker bees. After secretion, the bees chew the wax, mixing it with pollen and propolis (saliva-based bee glue), resulting in the familiar yellow-brown colour. To obtain beeswax, beekeepers remove honeycombs, which are primarily made of beeswax, from the hives to extract the honey. This process involves cutting off the wax caps from the honeycombs, often using special tools like capping knives or machines.
The production and use of beeswax candles are considered a form of animal exploitation by many vegans. Beeswax is a byproduct of honey production, and the process of harvesting honey can harm or even kill bees. Additionally, the removal of the honeycomb deprives bees of their food source and storage space. While beeswax is renewable and sustainable, with a longer burn time and a pleasant honey-like scent, it is not classified as vegan due to the involvement of bee labour and potential harm to bees.
Some vegans acknowledge the complexities of this debate. They recognise that bees play a vital role in pollinating numerous crops, including almonds, avocados, apples, and cucumbers. As a result, some vegans may accept honey and beeswax from small-scale "backyard" apiaries, aligning with their interpretation of vegan values while not meeting the technical definition. However, others argue that drawing the line at bee byproducts misses the core principles of veganism.
Ultimately, the decision to use beeswax products is a personal one, and individuals must weigh the benefits of beeswax's sustainability and pleasant aroma against the potential exploitation of bees and their labour.
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Soy wax is a vegan alternative to paraffin wax
Soy wax candles tend to burn slower and longer than paraffin wax candles, resulting in a longer-lasting candle. However, paraffin wax has a higher melting point, allowing for more complex candle shapes and sizes. It also holds scents better, enabling the addition of more fragrances. Paraffin wax is also more affordable and widely available, making it a popular choice for candle makers and DIY enthusiasts.
One of the main advantages of soy wax is its clean-burning properties. It meets federal regulations as a clean-burning fuel source and does not produce the same level of indoor air pollution as paraffin wax. Burning paraffin wax emits chemicals linked to cancer, respiratory diseases, and allergies. It releases soot into the air, which, while generally not dangerous, can be harmful to respiratory health.
However, it is important to note that soy wax is not without its drawbacks. It tends to be more expensive and challenging to work with due to its lower melting point. It also doesn't hold scents as well as paraffin wax, which can be a consideration for scented candles. Additionally, soy wax may be more difficult to clean up, as it can leave a greasy residue on surfaces.
In conclusion, soy wax is a viable vegan alternative to paraffin wax for candle making. It offers a clean-burning, renewable, and eco-friendly option with a longer burn time. However, it may be more costly and less widely available than paraffin wax. Ultimately, the choice between soy wax and paraffin wax depends on individual preferences, budget, and specific candle-making requirements.
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Coconut wax is another vegan option that holds added scents and colours well
When making the switch to vegan candles, it's important to consider the type of wax being used. While paraffin wax is a common choice, it is not vegan-friendly due to its petroleum base and the indoor air pollution it causes when burned. Beeswax, another popular option, is also non-vegan as it is produced by bees.
This is where coconut wax comes in as a fantastic vegan alternative. Coconut wax candles, like those offered by Hemlock Park, Stone Candles, and Arctic Wicks, provide a beautiful white colour and an even burn. They are known for their ability to hold added scents and colours effectively, allowing for a wide range of fragrance options. Coconut wax is also suitable for use with most common wicks, ensuring a clean and consistent flame.
The versatility of coconut wax makes it an excellent choice for creating unique and sustainable candles. For example, the Coco by Stone collection offers coconut wax candles in various sizes and scents, including White Tea and Oud Wood. Their products are all-natural and eco-friendly, providing a modern twist on traditional candles.
In addition to coconut wax, soy wax is another popular vegan option. Soy candles, such as those suggested by EcoRoots, offer a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to paraffin wax. They burn longer and are soft when set, making them perfect for beginners in candle-making.
When choosing vegan candles, it's important to consider not just the wax but also the wicks and any added fragrances or colours. By selecting natural and sustainable options, you can create an ethical and eco-friendly ambiance in your space.
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Some candle wicks are made from heavy metals like lead
Candles are a popular choice for creating a soothing and calming atmosphere. However, conventional candles are often made using potentially toxic ingredients, such as paraffin wax, which contributes to indoor air pollution. Another concerning ingredient is candle wicks containing heavy metals like lead.
Candle wicks are essential for the efficient burning of candles. There are over 200 different types of wicks available, and choosing the right one depends on the size of the candle. Flat braided wicks, for example, are commonly used in taper candles, while square wicks are used in beeswax candles. Cored wicks, which make up about 40% of the wick market, are rigid and have a central core surrounded by wicking material. This core can be made from various materials, including cotton, paper, hemp, metal, or polypropylene.
Metal-cored wicks, specifically those containing lead, have been a significant concern for candle manufacturers and consumers alike. Lead was commonly used in candle wicks to add rigidity to otherwise limp cotton wicks, aiding the manufacturing process. However, as awareness grew about the health risks associated with inhaling airborne lead, most candle makers voluntarily discontinued the use of lead-core wicks in the 1970s. Despite this shift, some candles with lead-core wicks were still being produced.
It wasn't until 2003 that wicks containing lead were officially banned in the USA. Today, candle manufacturers have explored alternative metals like zinc and tin for cored wicks. Scientific studies on zinc and tin metal core wicks show that the amount of lead they release, if any, is considered undetectable. Some manufacturers have also opted for natural fibres like pure cotton and paper for stability, completely avoiding the use of metal cores.
When purchasing candles, it's essential to consider not only the aesthetic and olfactory appeal but also the potential impact on your health and the environment. While lead-cored wicks are now banned, it's worth checking the ingredients and materials used in your candles to ensure they are safe and sustainable.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the ingredients used. Some gel candles may be made with animal-derived substances, such as beeswax or animal fat, which are not vegan. However, there are also vegan gel candles made with plant-based waxes like soy or coconut wax.
Gel candles are typically made from a combination of wax, dyes, and fragrances. The wax can be derived from plants or animals, and common sources include soy, coconut, beeswax, paraffin, or tallow (animal fat).
Look for candles labelled as "vegan" or "vegan-friendly." These candles will be made without any animal-derived ingredients. If the candle is not clearly labelled, it's best to assume it contains animal products unless you can verify the ingredients with the manufacturer.
Yes, vegan gel candles offer a more sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional candles. They are often made with natural, plant-based ingredients that are renewable and environmentally friendly. Additionally, vegan candles avoid the use of animal products, ensuring that no animals were harmed or exploited in the candle-making process.
