Shellac at a glance
- Category
- Glazing Agent
- Also called
- Shellac Wax, E904, 904
- Commonly found in
- Candies, Pills, Fruits, Coffee beans
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Shellac?
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the female lac bug (Kerria lacca), found on trees in India and Thailand. It is harvested from the twigs of these trees, where the insects deposit the resin as a protective shell for their larvae. This resin is processed into a dry form and dissolved in ethanol to make liquid shellac, which can be used as a brush-on colorant, food glaze, or wood finish. In the food industry, shellac is commonly used as a glazing agent to provide a shiny coating on products like candies and pills.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Shellac is a term used to describe the excretion of certain insects.
Learn more →Shellac (e904) is a term used to describe the excretion of certain insects.
Learn more →Shellac is a term used to describe the excretion of certain insects.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Shellac
People, particularly vegans, avoid shellac because it is derived from an animal source, specifically the excretion of the lac bug. Ethical considerations regarding the exploitation of insects for commercial purposes lead some individuals and groups to avoid products containing this ingredient. Additionally, those with religious dietary restrictions, such as certain kosher and halal guidelines, may also choose to avoid shellac, depending on how it is sourced and processed.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.
Foods That Commonly Contain Shellac
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How Spoonful reviews ingredients
- Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
- Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
- Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
- Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
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