Rapeseed Wax vs. Soy Wax: Which is Better for Your Candles?

1. Origin and Production Methods: Understanding Where These Waxes Come From 🌾

Soy Wax: A Global Origin and Mass Production

Soy wax is made through a process called hydrogenation, which transforms the oil extracted from soybeans into a solid wax. This chemical process, while simple, has revolutionized the candle industry by offering a plant-based, natural alternative to paraffin.

• Where does it come from?

The majority of soybean crops come from the United States (30%), Brazil (20%), and China (15%). These three countries dominate the global soybean production market, which is primarily used in industries such as animal feed, edible oils, cosmetics, and, of course, wax manufacturing.

• Did you know?

Soy wax is a relatively recent innovation, developed in the 1990s in response to a growing demand for natural, environmentally friendly alternatives. Today, it is widely used by artisans and brands looking to reduce their reliance on paraffin.

However, it is important to note that mass soy production is not without environmental consequences.

• Deforestation:

For example, in Brazil, intensive soybean cultivation is one of the main causes of deforestation in the Amazon. According to recent studies, it is responsible for more than 20% of the destruction of the rainforest, threatening thousands of animal and plant species.

• Pesticides:

Approximately 80% of soybean crops are now genetically modified to resist certain herbicides. While this can increase yields, the intensive use of pesticides can negatively impact soil and groundwater quality, not to mention growing consumer concerns about GMOs.

Rapeseed Wax: A European and Local Alternative

Rapeseed vegetable wax , on the other hand, is produced from the oil extracted from rapeseed seeds. Unlike soy wax, its production is strongly anchored in closer geographical areas, particularly in Europe, making it an ideal option for lovers of local and sustainable natural wax .

• Where does it come from?

Rapeseed is primarily grown in European countries such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, which are among the world's leading producers. Thanks to this geographical location, rapeseed wax is seen as a more local and environmentally friendly solution, suited to European markets concerned about their carbon footprint.

• Local production:

This local character translates directly into a reduction in CO₂ emissions associated with transport. For a French artisan, for example, using rapeseed wax means choosing a raw material that has only traveled a few hundred kilometers, unlike imported soy wax, which can cross continents before arriving in Europe.

Concrete example:

A craftsman who uses rapeseed wax to make natural candles can promote this approach to their customers, emphasizing that their candles are not only natural, but also contribute to a local circular economy and reduce the environmental impacts of international transport. This can be a differentiating argument to convince eco-conscious consumers.

Rapeseed Wax vs. Soy Wax: Two Natural Alternatives for Eco-Friendly Candles 🌿

In a world where consumers are looking for more environmentally friendly products, vegetable wax candles are emerging as a sustainable alternative to paraffin candles. But when faced with two popular waxes—soy wax and rapeseed wax—how can you make an informed choice? This article takes an in-depth look at both options, exploring their origins, properties, environmental impact, and much more.

2. Technical Properties: What Differentiates These Two Waxes 🔥

The technical properties of a wax directly influence the quality and performance of the final candle. Here's a detailed comparison.

Melting Point and Stability

• Soybean Wax: The melting point of soybean wax is between 50 and 52°C, making it an easy wax for artisans to work with. This characteristic also allows for optimal diffusion of fragrances, without overheating the essential oils.

• Natural Rapeseed Wax: With a slightly higher melting point, between 56 and 58°C, rapeseed wax is more rigid and retains its shape better, even in hot or bright environments.

Why is this important?

A higher melting point means the candle will be more resistant to weather conditions, which is beneficial for outdoor candles or intricate decorative shapes. However, this characteristic can make rapeseed wax slightly more difficult to handle when pouring.

Burn Time: The Longevity of Candles

• Soy Wax: A 200g candle made with soy wax can burn between 40 and 50 hours, with a soft, steady flame that slowly consumes the wax.

• Rapeseed Wax: For a candle of equivalent size, rapeseed wax generally offers a longer burn time, reaching 50 to 55 hours thanks to its density.

Diffusion of Perfumes: A Unique Olfactory Experience

• Soy Wax: This wax is particularly suitable for scented candles because it absorbs and releases essential oils evenly and consistently. This makes it an excellent option for rich or complex scents.

• Rapeseed Wax: Although equally effective, it can diffuse fragrances slightly more slowly. This property is better suited to subtle fragrances, such as floral or herbal notes.

Tip for craftsmen:

For intense scents like spices or citrus, a blend of rapeseed and soy wax can offer the best of both worlds in terms of diffusion and stability.

3. Environmental Impact: What is the Best Choice for the Planet? 🌍

Carbon Footprint: Local vs. Import

• Soy Wax: The majority of soy waxes available in Europe come from North America or Asia, generating a significant carbon footprint related to transportation. For example, one ton of soy wax imported from New York to Paris produces approximately 135 kg of CO2.

• Rapeseed Wax: Local production in Europe significantly reduces this impact. Transporting one tonne of rapeseed wax over an average distance of 500 km generates less than 25 kg of CO2, a reduction of more than 80%.

• Did you know? Buying local rapeseed wax not only supports European farmers, but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with candle manufacturing.

Monocultures and Biodiversity

• Soy: Soy cultivation is known for its harmful effects on biodiversity, as it leads to massive destruction of natural habitats.

• Rapeseed: In Europe, rapeseed is often integrated into diversified agricultural systems that promote soil regeneration.

Conclusion: What is the Best Choice for Your Candles?

Choosing between soy wax and rapeseed wax depends on your priorities.

• If you are looking for an economical and easy-to-work with wax, soy wax remains an interesting option.

• If your priority is to offer a local, sustainable and highly ecological product, rapeseed wax is an ideal choice.

As a craftsman, knowing these subtleties allows you to enhance the value of your products and meet the expectations of increasingly demanding consumers in terms of transparency and ecology.

Criteria	Rapeseed wax	Soy Wax	Paraffin Wax
Origin	🌍 Europe (France, Germany, Eastern European countries)	🌎 United States, Brazil, China	🛢️ Oil industry
Sustainability	✅ Very eco-responsible	⚖️ Moderate (GMOs, pesticides)	❌ Non-sustainable (fossil)
Carbon impact	🌱 Low (local)	🔼 Moderate (long transport)	⚠️ High (significant CO₂)
Combustion	🔥 Slow and clean	🔥 Slow and perfect for perfumes	⚡ Fast, soot possible
Diffusion of perfumes	🌿 Progressive and subtle	🌸 Excellent for strong perfumes	Average
Cost	💸 Affordable (€€)	💸 Affordable (€€)	💲 Economical (€)
Melting point	56-58°C	50-52°C	47-65°C
Ecology	🌍 Very good	🌱 Average and depends on conditions	❌ Bad
Vegan	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No
Type of wax	🌱 Vegetable (Rapeseed)	🌱 Vegetable (Soy)	🏭 Mineral (Paraffin)
Appearance	🌟 Smooth and even	🌟 Shiny and silky	⚪ Smooth, but sometimes less aesthetic