E904

E904: Shellac

No known riskFunction: glazing agent

What is E904?

E904 (Shellac) is a glazing agent used in processed foods.

What the research says

Insect-derived glaze for sweets and fruit. Not vegan.

Regulatory status

European UnionApproved
United StatesApproved

Questions people ask

Is E904 (Shellac) safe?

Insect-derived glaze for sweets and fruit. Not vegan.

Why is E904 added to food?

It is used as a glazing agent.

Does E904 make a food ultra-processed?

Yes. Under the NOVA system, cosmetic additives such as E904 mark a food as ultra-processed.

Scan a barcode

Point your camera at the barcode