Is Mineral Oil Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Mineral Oil is restricted in European Union (E905 restricted to specific applications; extensive ongoing EFSA evaluation of MOSH/MOAH contamination), Australia (restricted levels), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Mineral Oil on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Waxy coating on fresh apples, Waxy coating on cucumbers and citrus, Some candies (as release agent).
TL;DR: Mineral Oil is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Mineral Oil: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | Waxy coating on fresh apples, Waxy coating on cucumbers and citrus, Some candies (as release agent), Processed cheese (as release agent), Chewing gum base, Baking pan release agents |
What is Mineral Oil?
Mineral oil (E905) is a refined petroleum product used as a food-grade lubricant, coating agent, and glazing agent in food processing and production. Food-grade mineral oil is a highly refined grade of petroleum distillate with specifications limiting impurities. It differs from pharmaceutical-grade (Vaseline) and cosmetic-grade mineral oils in refinement level.
Why is Mineral Oil used in food?
Food-grade mineral oil is used to coat fresh produce (apples, cucumbers, citrus) to prevent moisture loss and improve appearance, as a release agent in baking and food processing equipment, and as a lubricant for food-contact machinery. It is also used in some candies and chewing gum.
What regulators have flagged about Mineral Oil
EFSA has raised significant concerns about mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) contamination in food through two pathways: (1) deliberate food-grade mineral oil use in coatings and processing, and (2) migration from recycled paper and cardboard food packaging into food. MOH comprises two types: mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH), which accumulate in human adipose tissue, liver, and spleen, and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH), which include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are potentially carcinogenic. A 2011 Swiss study found mineral oil hydrocarbons in human liver and spleen samples from autopsy, demonstrating real bioaccumulation. EFSA's 2023 preliminary opinion identified MOAH contamination in food as a safety concern that cannot be dismissed, recommending ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) minimization. Untreated and mildly treated mineral oils are IARC Group 1 human carcinogens for occupational inhalation. Highly refined food-grade mineral oil (E905) is not classified as a direct carcinogen, but MOAH contamination in even food-grade mineral oil is an ongoing concern.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Mineral Oil with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Mineral Oil →
Audited products that don't contain Mineral Oil.
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Mineral Oil and pregnancy: common questions
Is Mineral Oil banned anywhere?
Yes. Mineral Oil is restricted in European Union (E905 restricted to specific applications; extensive ongoing EFSA evaluation of MOSH/MOAH contamination), Australia (restricted levels). The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Mineral Oil during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Mineral Oil?
Commonly found in Waxy coating on fresh apples, Waxy coating on cucumbers and citrus, Some candies (as release agent), Processed cheese (as release agent), Chewing gum base, Baking pan release agents. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Mineral Oil.
What can I use instead of Mineral Oil?
Carnauba wax (E903), shellac (E904), beeswax (E901), and plant-based wax alternatives coat produce without petroleum-derived compounds. Organic produce cannot be coated with petroleum mineral oil by USDA organic standards. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Mineral Oil or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- EFSA Scientific Opinion on Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons in Food 2012 — EFSA
- EFSA Preliminary Opinion on MOAH in food 2023 — EFSA
- Zurfluh et al. MOSH accumulation in human tissues 2011 — PubMed/NIH
- FDA on Mineral Oil as food-grade coating — FDA
- IARC on Untreated/Mildly Treated Mineral Oils (Group 1) — IARC
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/10/2026.