Ingredient · E904

Food Grade Lac Resin

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use lac resin as a glazing agent to provide a protective, shiny coating …

What is Food Grade Lac Resin?

Food grade lac resin, also known as shellac, is a natural resin secreted by the female lac bug. It is harvested from trees in India and Thailand, then processed to remove impurities and form flakes or powder.

Is Food Grade Lac Resin vegan?

No. Food Grade Lac Resin is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Food Grade Lac Resin gluten-free?

Shellac is derived from insects and does not contain any of the major allergens or gluten.

Is Food Grade Lac Resin a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Food Grade Lac Resin used for?

Manufacturers use lac resin as a glazing agent to provide a protective, shiny coating on foods.

Is Food Grade Lac Resin safe?

In the U.S., food grade lac resin is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use lac resin as a glazing agent to provide a protective, shiny coating on foods. This helps to prevent moisture loss and gives products an appealing gloss, commonly seen on candies, chocolates, and dried fruits.

Health notes

In the U.S., food grade lac resin is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is not metabolized by the body and is excreted unchanged. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated shellac and found it to be safe for consumption at typical levels. No significant health concerns are associated with its use in approved food applications.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. Shellac is derived from insects and does not contain any of the major allergens or gluten.

Foods that contain Food Grade Lac Resin

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Durham's, Chocolate Pecans Ellis Pecan Co., Inc. Durham's, Chocolate Pecans Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 607kcal 7.1Protein 42.9Fat 53.6Carbs Yogurt Raisins Texas Star Nut & Food Company, Inc. Yogurt Raisins Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving High in added sugars — 24% DV per serving 464kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat —Carbs Blueberries Dark Chocolate, Blueberries Tropical Valley Foods Sa Blueberries Dark Chocolate, Blueberries Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 450kcal 2.5Protein 20Fat 70Carbs Dark Chocolate Strawberries, Dark Chocolate Tropical Valley Foods Sa Dark Chocolate Strawberries, Dark Chocolate Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 425kcal 2.5Protein 20Fat 70Carbs Yogurt Raisins Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. Yogurt Raisins Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving High in added sugars — 24% DV per serving 433kcal 3.3Protein 20Fat 73.3Carbs Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. Milk Chocolate Bridge Mix Other Snacks High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in added sugars — 22% DV per serving 500kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 63.3Carbs Walgreens Co. Strawberry Granola Honey Roasted Peanuts, Strawberry Granola, Yogurt Raisins, Dried Strawberries, Dried Cranberries, And Walnuts Premium Trail Mix, Strawberry Granola Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 429kcal 7.1Protein 21.4Fat 60.7Carbs Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. Ferris, Raisins, Milk Chocolate, Milk Chocolate Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 429kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat 71.4Carbs Faith Walk Designs, Inc. Chocolate Almonds Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 533kcal 3.3Protein 16.7Fat 70Carbs Tropical Valley Foods Sa Dark Chocolate, Cashews Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 550kcal 10Protein 37.5Fat 47.5Carbs Bergin Nut Company, Inc. Nutty Cookie Dough Mix Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 571kcal 14.3Protein 42.9Fat 35.7Carbs McIlhenny Company Chocolate Covered Raisins Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 429kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat 71.4Carbs

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.