What is Shellac and Why is it in Candy?
Shellac is a natural, insect-derived resin secreted by the female lac bug, Kerria lacca. Found primarily on trees in India and Thailand, the resin serves as a protective cocoon for the bug's larvae. For centuries, this resin has been harvested, processed, and used in various applications, from wood finish and pharmaceuticals to food coatings. In the food industry, it is most commonly referred to as “confectioner's glaze,” “resinous glaze,” or “natural glaze” and can be found under the European food additive code E904.
Candy manufacturers value shellac for several key properties. It provides a mirror-bright, durable finish that makes products visually appealing. This coating also helps protect the candy from moisture, which extends its shelf life and prevents it from sticking together in the package. For consumers on a plant-based diet, however, this ingredient is a notable concern because it is derived from insects and the harvesting process typically involves killing the lac bugs.
Examples of Candies That May Contain Shellac
Due to the common practice of using confectioner's glaze for shine and preservation, many candies contain shellac. Always check the ingredient list, as manufacturers' recipes can change. Here is a non-exhaustive list of candies that have historically or are known to use shellac:
- Jelly beans (many brands, including Jelly Belly)
- Candy corn
- Hershey's Whoppers
- Hershey's Milk Duds
- Tootsie Roll Industries' Junior Mints
- Godiva Chocolatier candy
- Gertrude Hawk candies
- Nestlé's Raisinets and Goobers
- Some sprinkles and decorative toppings
Dietary Considerations and Shellac Alternatives
For many consumers, especially those following vegetarian, vegan, or certain religious diets (such as kosher or halal), the presence of an insect-derived ingredient like shellac is an important consideration. While the FDA labels shellac as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for consumption and many kosher authorities permit its use, it is definitively not vegan. In fact, the Vegetarian Society no longer accredits new products containing shellac as vegetarian, reflecting a broader awareness of its origin.
Fortunately, as consumer demand for plant-based and transparently labeled products has grown, so too have the alternatives available to manufacturers. These vegan options provide a similar glossy, protective finish without the ethical concerns associated with insect harvesting.
Comparing Candy Glazing Agents
| Feature | Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze) | Carnauba Wax | Zein (Corn Protein) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Insect-derived resin (lac bug) | Plant-derived (carnauba palm) | Plant-derived (corn) |
| Dietary Suitability | Not vegan; not always considered vegetarian | Vegan, Vegetarian | Vegan, Vegetarian |
| Ethical Impact | Harvesting process can harm or kill insects | Considered sustainable; harvesting does not harm the plant | Sustainable; production based on a common crop |
| Melting Point | Melts at 75°C (167°F) | Very high; melts at 82-87°C (180-187°F) | Forms a hard, insoluble coating |
| Labeling | Confectioner's glaze, resinous glaze, E904 | Carnauba wax, E903 | Confectioner's glaze, zein |
Finding Shellac-Free and Vegan Candy Options
For those who wish to avoid shellac, the most important step is to read the ingredient list carefully and look for the specific terminology. Given that "confectioner's glaze" is a common phrase that may indicate shellac, shoppers should also look for vegan-certified labels or specific mention of plant-based glazes. Many brands now highlight their commitment to cruelty-free ingredients directly on their packaging or websites.
Several popular candy brands and types are known to be vegan and shellac-free, including M&M's (which historically do not contain shellac), Airheads, Sour Patch Kids, and Twizzlers. A growing number of specialty and organic candy brands also use plant-based glazes exclusively. When in doubt, contacting the manufacturer is the most reliable way to get up-to-date information on ingredients. The landscape of confectionery is evolving, with more companies responding to consumer demand for ethical and transparent sourcing.
Taking Control of Your Nutritional Choices
Knowing about ingredients like shellac empowers you to make more informed dietary choices. While shellac itself is not a significant nutritional component, the decision to consume it often depends on ethical and dietary principles. By understanding its origin and looking for alternative labels, you can align your sweets with your personal health and ethical guidelines.
Conclusion
While shellac, or 'confectioner's glaze,' is a safe and effective food coating for providing a glossy finish and extending shelf life, its insect origin makes it unsuitable for vegan and some vegetarian diets. Many candies, including jelly beans, candy corn, and certain chocolate-covered items, use this ingredient. However, consumers have increasing access to alternatives, such as carnauba wax and corn protein, which are plant-based and meet ethical dietary standards. By carefully checking ingredient labels for terms like "confectioner's glaze," "resinous glaze," or E904, and looking for explicit vegan certifications, you can confidently choose candies that align with your nutritional and ethical preferences. This awareness is a crucial part of a mindful nutrition diet, extending beyond caloric and nutrient content to include sourcing and ethical production.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for specific dietary concerns.
