Shellac – A Natural Product Derived from Sticklac
What Is Shellac?
Shellac is a natural resin obtained from the secretion of the lac insect (Kerria lacca), primarily harvested from host trees in tropical forests. The raw material, called sticklac, is processed to remove impurities and wax, resulting in refined flakes or granules. This eco-friendly product is biodegradable, sustainable, and widely used in multiple industries.

From Sticklac to Shellac
Shellac is produced through several refining methods, each designed to remove impurities from sticklac and improve quality for specific uses.
The traditional process involves melting seedlac inside a long cloth bag over a charcoal hearth. By twisting the bag, molten lac is filtered and then shaped into sheets or button-like forms. The leftover residue, called kirrilac, contains insect debris and sand.
In the heat process, seedlac is melted using steam, then mixed with agents like oxalic acid or titanium dioxide. It’s filtered under hydraulic pressure and formed into continuous sheets, later broken into flakes.
The solvent process dissolves seedlac in alcohol, removes wax and color impurities through filtration and activated carbon treatment, then forms dewaxed or decolorized grades such as platina or blonde.
For bleached shellac, the resin is dissolved in sodium carbonate, treated with hypochlorite, and precipitated with acid. This produces a white-grade shellac used in specific industrial and pharmaceutical applications.
These varied processes result in different grades of shellac—flakes, buttons, dewaxed, or bleached—each suited for specific industries from wood polish to food and pharma.

Key Applications of Shellac
This resin is known for its versatility. It serves a wide range of purposes across industries due to its excellent film-forming properties, natural gloss, and safety for food and pharmaceuticals.
1. Wood Finishing and Polishing
Shellac is a favorite among woodworkers and furniture makers. It forms a smooth, protective film that enhances the natural grain of wood, while offering resistance to moisture and UV light. Traditional French polishing techniques often rely on this product for a lustrous finish.
2. Food and Confectionery Coating
Due to its non-toxic nature, the resin is used as a glazing agent in food products. It provides a shiny, moisture-resistant coating for candies, chocolates, and fruits. In food labeling, it may appear as E904.
3. Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Use
Shellac acts as an enteric coating for tablets and capsules, helping to control drug release in the digestive system. In cosmetics, it is used in hair sprays, nail polishes, and other grooming products for its fast-drying and film-forming qualities.
4. Electrical and Industrial Applications
In electronics, it serves as an insulating varnish for coils, capacitors, and other components. It also finds use in industrial adhesives, sealants, and inks due to its strong bonding properties.
Why Choose Shellac?
There are several reasons manufacturers and artisans prefer shellac over synthetic alternatives:
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Natural and Renewable: As a product of insect secretion, this product is a renewable resource with minimal environmental impact.
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Biodegradable: Unlike petroleum-based finishes, shellac breaks down naturally and does not contribute to long-term pollution.
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Non-toxic and Food-safe: It meets safety standards for edible coatings and pharmaceutical use.
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Quick-drying: The product sets rapidly, improving efficiency in production and application.
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Aesthetic Appeal: It enhances surfaces with a warm, amber tone and natural shine.
Grades and Forms Available
Shellac is available in various forms such as flakes, buttons, and powders. It also comes in multiple color grades—from pale lemon to deep garnet—depending on the level of refinement and wax content.
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Dewaxed Shellac: Ideal for food and pharmaceutical applications.
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Waxed Shellac: Suitable for wood finishes and decorative purposes.
Storage and Shelf Life
To maintain quality, the resin should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. When kept under proper conditions, it remains usable for up to 12–18 months.
Export and Market Demand
The demand for shellac is rising globally, especially in North America, Europe, and East Asia. Countries importing this product often require compliance with health and safety certifications such as FDA, ISO, and HACCP. Suppliers offering traceability and high-grade quality gain competitive advantages in international markets.
Where to Buy Shellac
If you’re looking for a reliable source of high-quality shellac, Dien Bien Agri is your trusted partner. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and traceability, we supply both raw seedlac and refined shellac tailored to various industrial needs—from food-grade coatings to wood finishing and pharmaceuticals. Our products are exported to discerning markets worldwide, meeting strict international standards.
Read more: Shellac – A Natural Product Derived from Sticklac
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