Why Soy Wax?

Soy wax is a completely natural and renewable resource. Non-toxic and produces measurably less soot than other waxes.

Soy wax is natural, biodegradable and renewable. It is excellent to work with, clean burning and holds lots of fragrance. It is vegan friendly and cruelty free.

Soy wax is an all-natural by-product of soybeans. The majority of soybeans are grown and harvested by farmers, so it supports farmers as well as being great for the environment. Soy is a completely renewable resource that will continue to grow and be harvested.

Michael Richards, a candle maker, discovered soy wax in 1991. Michael was looking for an inexpensive alternative to beeswax. As he experimented with different types of vegetable products, he eventually discovered a relatively cheap way to create wax from soybean oil. His invention paved the way for a new kind of candle, which burned cleaner than paraffin and was less costly to produce than many alternatives.

The Refining Process

Soy wax is derived from soybean oil. In order to produce wax, harvested soybeans are:

• Cleaned

• Cracked

• De-hulled

• Rolled into flakes

Next, the oil is extracted from these flakes using solvents or mechanical pressing and hydrogenated. During the hydrogenation process, fatty acids in the oil become saturated, which alters the melting point of the oil and makes it solid at room temperature. Soy wax is available in flakes or pellets. 

How Is the Wax Made into Candles?

Candle makers melt soy wax flakes or pellets in boilers. During the melting process, they may add coloring, fragrance or essential oils to dye or add a pleasant scent to the candle. Wicks are typically prepared before the candle maker pours the melted wax into a jar to ensure the soy wax solidifies around the wick. After the candle is prepared, it is cooled at room temperature overnight.

Soy candles tend to produce a white, cool toned flame