Is Shellac (E904) halal?
Shellac (E904) is classified uncertain for halal use with Medium confidence. A resin secreted by the lac bug used as a tablet coating. Insect-derived; scholarly opinions vary on permissibility.
Coating · Confidence: Medium
Also known as: confectioner's glaze, lac
Related excipients
Ranked by co-formulation in our medicine catalog, shared concern codes, and compare guides.
Halal-friendlier alternatives
From our ingredient library, curated compare pairs, and alternatives listed on this record — confirm with your clinician before switching.
Capsule material / coating
Cellulose-based film coating instead of shellac glaze
A resin secreted by the lac bug used as a tablet coating.
Provides a glossy, moisture-resistant coating on pills.
Insect-derived; scholarly opinions vary on permissibility.
- Lac insect
Questions to ask
- Is there an uncoated or alternative-coated version?
Reason codes
Evidence & citations1
AuditCommon questions
- Is Shellac (E904) halal?
- RxHalal currently classifies Shellac (E904) as UNCERTAIN (Medium confidence). Insect-derived; scholarly opinions vary on permissibility. This is information only — not a fatwa or medical advice.
- What is Shellac (E904) used for in medicines?
- A resin secreted by the lac bug used as a tablet coating. Provides a glossy, moisture-resistant coating on pills.
- What are common sources of Shellac (E904)?
- Common sources include: Lac insect. Manufacturers often do not disclose which source is used.
- Is there an uncoated or alternative-coated version?
- Ask your pharmacist or prescriber. RxHalal lists this because Shellac (E904) is uncertain in our cited database.
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AI suggests the fewest questions that would resolve the uncertainty.
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