Is it vegan? Additives & E-numbers E904
Is shellac vegan?
Quick answer: No. Shellac (E904) is a resin secreted by female lac insects, so it is not vegan.
Also called: E904, lac, gum lac, lac resin, confectioner’s glaze, resinous glaze, pharmaceutical glaze
Why it isn’t vegan
Shellac is a resin produced by the lac insect (Kerria lacca), harvested from the branches of host trees in South and Southeast Asia. It is listed in the EU and UK as glazing agent E904.
In food it is used as a shiny coating on sweets, chocolate-covered snacks, coffee beans and some fruit; in pharmaceuticals as a tablet coating; and in nail polish, hairspray and wood finishes. When used on sweets it is often called confectioner’s glaze.
What to look for on the label
- E904
- shellac
- confectioner’s glaze
- resinous glaze
- pharmaceutical glaze
- lac or gum lac
Where it’s found
- Shiny coated sweets and chocolate beans
- Coated fruit (especially citrus and apples in some markets)
- Tablet and supplement coatings
- Nail polish, hairspray, mascara
Vegan alternatives
- Carnauba wax (E903)
- Candelilla wax (E902)
- Zein (maize protein) coatings
- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) tablet coatings
Frequently asked questions
Is shellac vegan?
No. Shellac (E904) is a resin secreted by female lac insects, so it is not vegan.
Is confectioner’s glaze vegan?
No. Confectioner’s glaze is a food-grade shellac solution.
Are waxed apples vegan?
Some fruit coatings use shellac or beeswax, others use carnauba or plant-based waxes. Unwaxed or organic fruit avoids the question; otherwise ask the retailer.
Sources
- Approved additives and E numbers — Food Standards Agency (UK)
- Animal-Derived Ingredients List — PETA
Checked on 31 October 2026. Ingredients and recipes change, and the same product can differ between countries — always check the current label. This page is general information, not allergy or medical advice.