Oil, the ubiquitous fossil fuel, is not just powering our cars and heating our homes — it's also hiding in plain sight, playing a surprising role in many everyday items you might not expect. Petrochemicals derived from oil and natural gas are everyday products. From foods to beauty care products, here are 10 things you probably didn't know were made from oil.
sometimes contain food-grade paraffin wax, which is . When , it can create a glossy sheen upon hardening and helps keep chocolate solid at higher temperatures, as it has a low melting point. It also helps keep chocolate from sticking to molds, making it easier to remove the finished product intact.
When eaten, the wax remains undigested in the body, but that doesn't mean it's unsafe: A 2023 study by the European Food Safety Authority found no associated with the oil-based food product. Toothpaste may contain , like polyethylene glycol, which are added for several reasons, including flavoring, antibacterial properties and texture. In addition, several manufacturers use a petroleum derivative called to help toothpaste dissolve in water, as well as sodium saccharin, an artificial sweetener that kills plaque and is derived from petroleum.
When you dab your wrists with perfume or cologne, chances are you're putting the bones of long-dead animals on your body. Many fragrances use petroleum-derived oils instead of natural essential oils. For example, Iso E Super offers a woody, amber-like aroma, while hedione provides a jasmi.
