Clariant has secured approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its bio-based Licocare™ RBW wax additives for use in rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food-contact applications. Effective May 7, 2026, the approval extends the company’s existing authorization beyond polyester materials to include rigid PVC applications.
Broader Scope for Food-Contact Applications
The approval covers the entire Licocare RBW portfolio, including the RBW 100 series, RBW 300 series, Licocare RBW 360 Vita, and Licocare RBW 560 Vita. Manufacturers can use these additives as processing aids, lubricants, release agents, and slip additives in both single-use and repeat-use rigid PVC applications. The authorization applies to all food types except infant formula and human milk contact applications.
Furthermore, the FDA permits the use of these additives at concentrations of up to 0.5% by weight in direct food-contact applications under specified conditions. For food-processing equipment made from rigid PVC, Clariant has also received a Letter of No Objection (LONO) allowing repeated-use applications at concentrations of up to 1%.
Supporting Sustainable Alternatives
As per the Clariant press release, the dual authorization enables manufacturers to use the additives across a wide range of applications, including rigid PVC containers, packaging materials, conveyor belts, cutting boards, storage containers, seals, and gaskets. Consequently, formulators gain greater flexibility to meet performance requirements while maintaining regulatory compliance.
In addition, the approval strengthens Clariant’s global regulatory position. Earlier in 2026, the company received European Commission authorization based on a positive opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for the same product range in PET, PLA, and rigid PVC materials. Clariant also holds food-contact approvals in Japan.
Addressing Supply Chain and Sustainability Challenges
Licocare RBW additives are derived from rice bran wax and provide a renewable alternative to conventional fossil-based montan waxes. As supply constraints and price volatility continue to affect the montan wax market, manufacturers are increasingly seeking sustainable and reliable alternatives.
Moreover, the bio-based additives deliver key processing benefits, including improved lubrication, mold release, nucleation effects, and enhanced dispersion properties. Their biodegradable and industrially compostable characteristics further support sustainability goals across the packaging and plastics industries.
Strengthening Global Compliance
With approvals now covering FDA, EFSA, and Japanese regulatory requirements, Clariant has established a strong compliance framework for its Licocare RBW portfolio. As a result, manufacturers can more confidently adopt renewable additives in food-contact applications while meeting stringent international regulatory standards.
