Shellac E904
surface coating — Primarily natural.
Laccifer lacca resin
CAS: 9000-59-3
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Shellac?
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac insect (Kerria lacca) on trees in India and Southeast Asia. The only commercially produced resin of insect origin, it functions as a glazing agent providing high-gloss coatings on chocolate confectionery, fresh citrus fruits, and pharmaceutical tablets. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety in 2012. Due to its insect origin, shellac is not considered vegan and may not be acceptable in some kosher or halal contexts. Approved in EU, USA, Japan, Canada, and Australia as a food-grade glazing agent.
? Did You Know?
Shellac occurs naturally in Secretion of female lac insect (Kerria lacca, Laccifer lacca). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Shellac is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Shellac has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Authorized as glazing agent for surface treatment
United States (FDA)
Approved as resinous glaze on confectionery
Japan (MHLW)
Natural additive, existing use
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
A natural resin secreted by the female lac insect on trees in India and Thailand. The insects secrete the resin to form a protective cocoon. Refined shellac is used as a glazing agent in foods and as a finish for wood furniture.
Manufacturing
Harvested from tree branches where lac insects have created resinous deposits. The raw material (sticklac) is processed by crushing, washing, filtering, and refining to produce purified shellac flakes or liquid.
Applications Beyond Food
Nail polish, hair spray, mascara
Enteric tablet coating, time-release capsules
Furniture polish, wood finish, vinyl record coating
French polish for wood, primer/sealer, artist fixative