E904 – Shellac
Glazing agentDescription
Resinous secretion of the lac insect, *Kerria lacca*
Notes
Shellac is a natural resin that comes from the secretions of a tiny insect called Kerria lacca, which lives on trees in India and Southeast Asia. These insects feed on tree sap and excrete a resinous substance that hardens into protective shells around them. The resin is harvested from the branches, then processed through washing, filtering, and heating to create the refined shellac used in food production. Despite its insect origin, the final product is essentially a purified plant-derived resin, since the insects are feeding on tree sap. As a glazing agent, shellac creates a shiny, protective coating on foods that helps seal in freshness and gives an attractive glossy appearance. You'll find it most commonly on candies (particularly chocolate-covered items and hard sweets), fresh fruits like apples and pears, coffee beans, and some pills and tablets. It acts like a natural plastic wrap, preventing moisture loss while making foods look more appealing to consumers. While shellac is natural, it's not suitable for vegans since it's produced by insects, though many vegetarians do consider it acceptable. It's generally recognized as safe by food regulators worldwide and has been used for centuries in food preservation. People following strict halal or kosher diets may want to check with their religious authorities, as opinions can vary regarding insect-derived products. The amounts used in food are very small and shellac is largely indigestible, passing through the body without being absorbed.