Wax candy, popularly known as “la ping tang” in China, has recently become the subject of a government crackdown due to food safety concerns.
Images: Shopee
This sweet treat, often enjoyed for its colorful appearance and chewy texture, is made from beeswax and filled with syrup. The candy has gained renewed popularity, thanks to influencers showcasing it on social media. However, the surge in demand has raised alarms among food safety authorities, both in China and internationally.
One of the major issues is the lack of proper labeling on these wax candies. Many products do not display essential information such as production dates, quality certifications, or even the manufacturer’s details. This absence of transparency has prompted at least six Chinese provinces, including Gansu, Hubei, and Sichuan, to take action. Chinese authorities have been cracking down on the sale of these wax candies and conducting spot checks on businesses, particularly those near schools, to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Images: iStock, Shopee
Health concerns surrounding wax candy primarily stem from the materials used in its production. While beeswax itself is non-toxic, reports have surfaced that some manufacturers are substituting beeswax with inferior or industrial-grade wax. This could pose significant health risks, especially for children. The candies are meant to be chewed to release the sweet syrup inside, but ingesting poor-quality wax could lead to digestive or other health issues.
The concerns over wax candy have extended beyond China’s borders. In Taiwan, food regulators launched an investigation in September, citing similar safety concerns. The island’s health ministry warned that these candies remain illegal as they have not received import approval. In Thailand, authorities issued warnings as early as December 2023, instructing online platforms to halt sales of wax candy.
Screengrabs from Shopee, Lazada
Despite these actions, listings for wax candies can still be found on popular e-commerce sites like Lazada, Amazon and Shopee, with some sellers offering delivery to countries like Singapore.
As overseas authorities intensify their crackdown on wax candies, consumers are urged to stay cautious. While the treats may seem harmless, the use of low-quality, industrial wax by some manufacturers poses significant health risks. These substandard waxes can cause bodily harm when consumed over time, making it essential for buyers to choose products with proper labeling and from trusted sources to ensure safety.
