Clariant has received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its bio-based Licocare RBW wax additives for use in rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food-contact applications, covering the complete Licocare RBW product range – RBW 100 series, RBW 300 series, RBW 360 Vita, and RBW 560 Vita.

Clariant secures FDA approval for bio-based Licocare RBW additives in rigid PVC food-contact applications. (Source: Clariant, AI-generated)

The authorization, effective May 7, 2026, extends the company's existing FDA approval beyond polyester materials to include rigid PVC.

Licocare RBW additives: Outstanding processing properties with sustainability commitment

Licocare RBW additives are derived from rice bran wax and provide a renewable alternative with substantial carbon footprint reductions compared to conventional fossil-based montan waxes.

Rice bran wax additives provide processing benefits including lubrication, mold release, nucleation effects, and enhanced dispersion properties. The products are biodegradable and industrially compostable, which supports end-of-life sustainability requirements for packaging materials.

International authorizations for multiple applications

The additives are authorized for use as processing aids, lubricants, release agents, and slip additives in single- and repeat-use rigid PVC applications across all food types, except for infant formula and human milk contact.

For direct food-contact applications, the additives are approved at levels up to 0.5% by weight under conditions of use C through H, with a temperature maximum of 80°C for hot-fill applications.

Clariant has also received an Opinion Letter of No Objection (LONO) for repeated use up to 1% concentration in food-contact articles for food processing equipment made of rigid PVC.

The dual authorization enables use across multiple applications, including rigid PVC containers, packaging materials, and food processing equipment components such as conveyor belts, cutting boards, storage containers, seals, and gaskets.

The FDA approval adds to Clariant's existing regulatory authorizations for the Licocare RBW portfolio. In February 2026, the EU Commission published authorization based on EFSA's positive opinion for the same product line in PET, PLA, and rigid PVC materials. The company also holds authorization from the Japanese food safety authority.

With approvals covering FDA, EFSA, and Japanese authorities, Clariant has established regulatory compliance for its bio-based Licocare RBW portfolio in key global markets. This provides manufacturers with the regulatory framework needed to implement renewable alternatives in their food-contact application.