« back to encyclopedia search resultsShellac
A resin produced commercially from secretions of the 'Lac'; an insect (Coccus lacca) living in India and the Far East.
The resin is left on twigs by the insect, and these are gathered and their covering used to make a crimson dye. Shellac is manufactured commercially by melting the separated resin and spreading it into thin layers or flakes.
It's then used, by food manufacturers, as a glaze to give shine, or protection to processed items.
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