E904 · Shellac
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E904?
Shellac is a resin secreted by the lac insect, used in food as a glazing agent on candy, fruit, and coffee beans, giving a shiny protective coating. It is also used in wood finishing, cosmetics, and as a coating for pharmaceutical tablets. Because it comes from an insect, shellac is not considered vegan by most standards and is generally regarded as safe, though rare allergic reactions have been reported.
Also appears on labels as: Shellac, Lac resin, Lac dye, Lac wax, Confectioner's glaze, Food glaze, E904, E 904, E-904, INS 904, Gum lac, Resinous coating.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Rare allergic/contact reactions have been reported in sensitive individuals.
Research behind the verdict
- Shellac (E904) – Safety Review — EFSA, EFSA (2007). Natural resin from insects; ADI not specified; safe as glazing/coating agent; allergenic risk minimal.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E904 safe?
Our overall verdict for E904 (Shellac) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E904 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Shellac — vegan: no, vegetarian: no, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E904 and why is it used?
Shellac is a resin secreted by the lac insect, used in food as a glazing agent on candy, fruit, and coffee beans, giving a shiny protective coating. It is also used in wood finishing, cosmetics, and as a coating for pharmaceutical tablets. Because it comes from an insect, shellac is not considered vegan by most standards and is generally regarded as safe, though rare allergic reactions have been reported.
Does E904 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Shellac, though some people report sensitivity (Rare allergic reaction reports).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.