What Is Shellac and Why Is It Used in Candy?
Shellac is a natural resin derived from the secretions of the female lac bug, Kerria lacca, which are harvested from tree branches in India and Thailand. The bugs create this hard, cocoon-like resin to protect their eggs. Once collected and processed, the resin is mixed with alcohol to create a food-grade glaze. In the food and confectionery industries, this ingredient is valued for its ability to provide a shiny, protective coating that seals in moisture and extends a product's shelf life. This glossy finish is particularly desired for hard and chocolate-coated candies, making them more visually appealing and durable on store shelves.
Popular Candies That May Contain Shellac
Identifying which candies contain shellac can be tricky, but it is often found in confections with a hard, shiny exterior. While ingredients can change, some brands historically known to use shellac include:
- Jelly Beans: Many commercial brands, including Jelly Belly and Russell Stover's jelly beans, use shellac. However, some vegan brands now offer shellac-free versions.
- Candy Corn: Most traditional brands of candy corn rely on confectioner's glaze to give them their classic sheen.
- Chocolate-Covered Candies: Items like Hershey's Whoppers and Milk Duds often contain shellac. Nestlé's Raisinets and Goobers have also been known to use it.
- Hard Candies: Tootsie Roll Industries' products like Junior Mints and Sugar Babies, as well as Ferrara's Red Hots, Lemonheads, and Boston Baked Beans, typically use confectioner's glaze.
- Decorative Toppings: Sprinkles and nonpareils can also be coated with shellac for added gloss.
How to Check for Shellac on a Candy Label
Since shellac is a concern for vegans and others who wish to avoid insect-derived products, it is essential to know what to look for on ingredient labels. Look for the following terms:
- Confectioner's glaze
- Resinous glaze
- Pure food glaze
- Natural glaze
- Candy glaze
- Lac resin
- E904 (its European food additive number)
It's important to note that some products may use beeswax instead, which is also an animal product. The term "confectioner's glaze" can sometimes also refer to a non-shellac, plant-based alternative, though this is less common and requires further investigation. For the most definitive answer, contacting the manufacturer directly is the best course of action.
Shellac Alternatives and Ethical Considerations
Growing consumer demand for vegan and ethically sourced products has prompted many candy manufacturers to explore alternatives to shellac. These options offer similar functionality without relying on insect-derived ingredients.
Common Vegan Glazing Alternatives
- Carnauba Wax: Derived from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm tree, this plant-based wax is a popular vegan alternative that provides a glossy and protective finish. It is used in many candies, including certain brands of M&M's.
- Zein: A protein derived from corn, Zein is another effective plant-based alternative to shellac. It creates a hard, clear, and water-insoluble coating that is tasteless and odorless.
- Vegetable-Based Coatings: Some companies use proprietary blends of vegetable-based waxes and oils to achieve a desirable finish.
Notable Shellac-Free and Vegan Candy Options
Several well-known candies are produced without shellac, often using a plant-based wax or a different formula. Examples include Skittles, Sour Patch Kids, Swedish Fish, and Smarties. Many specialized vegan candy brands also use these alternatives, making it easier for consumers to find suitable options. For example, some brands of jelly beans now specifically market themselves as vegan and shellac-free.
Comparison of Glazing Agents in Candy Production
| Feature | Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze) | Carnauba Wax | Zein (Corn Protein) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Secretion of the female lac bug | Leaves of the carnauba palm | Corn protein |
| Vegan Status | No | Yes | Yes |
| Primary Function | Glossy, protective, moisture-resistant coating | Glossy, protective, moisture-resistant coating | Glossy, protective, moisture-resistant coating |
| Sourcing | Insect-derived; ethical concerns for vegans | Plant-based; widely regarded as vegan-friendly | Plant-based; widely regarded as vegan-friendly |
| Labeling | "Confectioner's Glaze," "E904," "Lac Resin" | "Carnauba Wax," "E903" | "Zein," may also be labeled as "Confectioner's Glaze" |
Conclusion
For those wondering what candies still use shellac, the answer is that many popular confections with a hard, shiny exterior do, including several brands of jelly beans, candy corn, and chocolate-covered treats. However, consumers are not without options. With the rise of veganism and increased ingredient awareness, many companies are providing products with plant-based alternatives like carnauba wax and zein. By learning to identify "confectioner's glaze" and its various names on ingredient labels, consumers can make more informed choices about their treats and support brands that align with their dietary or ethical preferences. When in doubt, a quick check of a brand's website or an email to their customer service department can provide the clarity you need. For a more comprehensive list of products, consider consulting a resource like the Vegetarian Resource Group's extensive database(https://www.vrg.org/blog/2010/11/30/q-a-on-shellac/amp/).
