The Fascinating World of Shellac: From Bugs to Candy Coating

🐞Shellac is a natural resin produced by lac insects and is used in various industries.

🌍India is the world's largest producer of shellac, exporting over $65 million worth of it each year.

🌳Shellac is harvested from lac insects, which secrete an amber-colored resin on tree branches.

🔧The processing of shellac involves crushing, washing, drying, and stretching the resin into thin sheets.

🍬Shellac is used as a coating for candies, fruits, and nuts, providing a glossy finish and extended shelf life.

What is shellac made of?

—Shellac is made from the resin secreted by lac insects, which feed on tree sap.

Why is India the largest producer of shellac?

—India has a favorable climate for the growth of lac insects and has a long history of shellac production.

What industries use shellac?

—Shellac is used in the food industry as a coating for candies, fruits, and nuts. It is also used in woodworking and pharmaceuticals.

How is shellac processed?

—Shellac is processed by crushing and washing the resin, drying it to prevent mold, and stretching it into thin sheets.

Is shellac safe to consume?

—Shellac is considered safe for consumption and is approved as a food additive by the US Food and Drug Administration.

00:48Shellac, a natural resin, is produced by lac insects and has various uses in industries.

02:00India is the largest producer of shellac, exporting over $65 million worth of it annually.

02:43Lac insects secrete an amber-colored resin on tree branches, which is harvested to obtain shellac.

04:14The processing of shellac involves crushing, washing, drying, and stretching the resin into thin sheets.

07:25Shellac is used as a coating for candies, fruits, and nuts, providing a glossy finish and extended shelf life.

08:25Climate change and fluctuating prices pose challenges for the shellac industry in India.

09:09Fungicides are used to protect lac insects and increase shellac production.

09:51Indian lac producers are working to preserve the tradition of shellac production despite the challenges they face.