Shellac
The short version
A resin secreted by the lac insect, used to polish coated confectionery — non-vegan.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Secreted by the female lac insect (Kerria lacca) on host trees in India, Thailand, and Myanmar. Harvested by scraping and refined to flake or solution. Used since antiquity for varnish and food coating.
How it's used
Used to polish coated confectionery (jelly beans, chocolate-covered candies), apples (post-harvest fruit wax), and pharmaceutical tablet coatings. Provides a high-gloss finish that resists humidity. Not suitable for vegan diets.
Safety profile
ADI not specified. Considered safe at typical use levels. Not absorbed. Some individuals can develop allergic sensitivity, attributed to residual insect protein.
Physical & chemical properties
Pale yellow to amber flakes or solution. Forms a hard, glossy film on drying. Dissolves in ethanol but not water.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally with food-grade purity specifications limiting residual proteins and waxes.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.