Beeswax (cera alba) is a natural wax made by Apis mellifera honeybees. Eight wax-producing glands in the abdomen segments of worker bees generate scales, which they discard in or near the hive. The hive workers collect it and use it to make chambers in the beehive for honey storage and larval and pupal protection. Beeswax is mostly made up of fatty acid esters and different long-chain alcohols

Beeswax is edible, with a toxicity level comparable to plant waxes, and is authorized for use in food in most countries. It is used as a cheese covering in food preparation; by sealing out the air, it protects the cheese from deterioration. Beeswax can also be used as a food ingredient, acting as a glazing agent to prevent water loss in small amounts.

Beeswax is also used in soft gelatin capsules and tablet coatings. Beeswax is also used in the production of natural chewing gum. Beeswax might help lower cholesterol levels, prevent infections, and help protect the stomach from ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.