Uncovering the Truth Behind E904: The Hidden Ingredient in Your Food

When looking at the ingredients list of packaged foods, you may come across a variety of numbers and letters that can be confusing and leave us wondering what they actually mean. One such ingredient is E904. You may have seen it on food labels, but do you know what it actually is? In this article, we will delve into the world of food additives and answer the question – What is E904 in food? We will explore its origins, uses, and potential health effects to help you make informed choices about the foods you consume. So let’s dive in and uncover the truth about this commonly used food additive.

Overview of E904 in Food

E904, also known as shellac, is a food additive used in processed foods. It is a natural polymer produced by the female lac bug and is commonly found on certain trees in India and Thailand. The process of extracting shellac involves scraping the resin secreted by the insect off the tree bark. The resin is then purified and refined into flakes or powder form for use as a coating or glaze on food products.

Shellac has been used as a food additive for centuries, and it continues to be widely used today due to its unique properties. It is approved by regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for use in food.

Functions of E904 in Food

Shellac has several functions when used in food products. Its most common use is as a glazing agent, which gives a shiny appearance to foods such as candies, chocolates, and fruits. This makes these products more visually appealing to consumers. Additionally, shellac acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and preserving the freshness of certain foods.

Another important function of E904 is its ability to improve texture and stability in food products. When added to coatings for pills or candies, it helps to prevent sticking and clumping. In drinks such as wine or fruit juices, shellac acts as a thickener.

Evidence-based Safety of E904

The safety of E904 has been extensively studied by various organizations worldwide. Studies have shown that shellac does not pose any significant health risks when consumed in small amounts. The FDA has classified it as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS), meaning that experts have deemed it safe for consumption based on scientific evidence.

Furthermore, exposure studies have shown that humans are not exposed to significant levels of shellac through food consumption. The EFSA’s Scientific Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources (EFSA ANS) has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 40 mg/kg body weight per day for shellac. This means that consuming even large amounts of shellac in food is unlikely to have adverse health effects.

E904 in Specific Food Products

Shellac is commonly used in various food products, including confectionery, beverages, and pharmaceuticals.

In confectionery, shellac is often applied as a glaze on candies and chocolates to give them a glossy finish. It is also used as a coating agent on certain fruits like apples, pears, and lemons to preserve their moisture and prolong shelf life.

In the beverage industry, shellac is used as a foam stabilizer in drinks such as wine and fruit juices. It helps to create a smooth texture and prevents foaming during production and packaging.

In pharmaceuticals, shellac is commonly used as a coating for pills. It helps to prevent the ingredients from being released too quickly in the stomach, thereby ensuring efficient absorption in the intestines.

Potential Risks of E904

While E904 has been deemed safe for consumption by regulatory bodies, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to it. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming foods containing E904. If you experience any adverse reactions after consuming foods with E904 listed as an ingredient, it is best to consult with your doctor for further advice.

Additionally, those following a strict vegan or vegetarian diet may choose to avoid foods containing E904 due to its origin from insects. However, most modern methods of extracting shellac do not harm the lac bug population significantly.

E904 has been used for centuries as a food additive, and it continues to be used widely today. It serves several purposes, including glazing agent, thickener, and protective barrier in various food products. Due to its extensive safety testing, it has been deemed safe for consumption by regulatory bodies. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivity to shellac should avoid consuming foods containing E904. Overall, E904 plays an essential role in the production and preservation of many food products and can be safely consumed in small amounts as part of a balanced diet.

What Is E904 In Food: The Basics

E904, also known as shellac, is a food additive that is commonly used in the production and processing of various food products. It is a resin that comes from the secretions of female lac bugs, which are native to India and Thailand. E904 has been used in foods for centuries and is known for its ability to create a glossy finish on surfaces. Today, it can be found in a wide range of foods, from fruit coatings to candy shell coatings. But what exactly is E904 and how does it affect our food? Let’s explore further.

How Is E904 Made?

E904 is made from the secretions of lac bugs, which are primarily found on trees in India and Thailand. These insects produce a waxy substance called lac resin to protect their eggs during breeding season. The harvested resin is then processed into shellac flakes by heating them over a fire and filtering out any impurities. These flakes can then be dissolved in alcohol to create a liquid form of shellac.

The Function Of E904 In Food

Shellac has been used as a food additive for centuries thanks to its unique properties. It acts as a natural preservative due to its antimicrobial properties, preventing the growth of bacteria on the surface of foods such as fruit and vegetables. Additionally, it creates a glossy finish when applied, making it an ideal coating for candies, chocolates, pills, and even fruits.

The Controversy Surrounding E904 In Food

Though approved for use by major food safety authorities like the FDA and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), there has been some controversy surrounding the use of E904 in food. One concern is that it isn’t entirely clear if consuming large amounts of shellac could be harmful to human health in the long term. Another concern is the potential use of other harmful chemicals in the processing of shellac flakes.

E904 In Food Production

In the food industry, E904 is commonly used in fruit coatings, candy shells, and waxes for cheese and other foods. You may also find it in sprinkles and glazes for baked goods, pills and tablets as a coating, and even in certain beverages as a food additive. However, because shellac is generally considered safe for consumption by most major food authorities, its use is widespread and can be found in many everyday products.

The Alternatives To E904

For those concerned about consuming E904 in their food, there are various alternatives available on the market. Some common plant-based alternatives to E904 include carnauba wax, beeswax, and vegetable waxes like candelilla, rice bran, and jojoba. These natural waxes have similar properties to shellac but have not been linked to any health concerns.

E904 or shellac has been used as a food additive for centuries and has various purposes in food production. It acts as a natural preservative, creates a glossy finish when applied to foods, and can be found in a variety of products. Though there are some concerns surrounding its consumption in large amounts over an extended period of time, it remains approved for use by major food safety authorities. For those who prefer alternative options to E904, plant-based waxes are widely available and can offer similar benefits without any potential health concerns.

Q: What is E904 in food?
A: E904, also known as shellac or confectioner’s glaze, is a natural resin that is used in food as a glazing agent.

Q: Is E904 safe to consume?
A: Yes, E904 is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Q: What types of food can contain E904?
A: E904 can be found in a variety of foods including candy, chewing gum, fruits and vegetables, nuts, and some medications.

Q: Why is E904 used in food?
A: E904 is often used in foods as a coating or glazing agent to improve the appearance and preserve the freshness of products.

Q: Are there any potential health concerns with consuming E904?
A: Some people may have allergies to shellac, which could cause adverse reactions when consuming foods containing E904. Additionally, excessive consumption of foods with E904 may lead to digestive issues.

Q: Is there an alternative to using E904 in food?
A: Yes, there are alternative glazing agents that can be used in food such as carnauba wax or beeswax. However, they may not provide the same level of protection and preservation as E904.

In conclusion, e904, also known as shellac, is a common food additive used in various products such as candy, coatings, and glazes. It is derived from the resin secreted by the lac beetle and has been used for centuries in traditional medicines and food preservation. However, there are concerns about its use in food due to potential allergic reactions and its production process which involves killing large numbers of insects.

Through our research, we have found that e904 is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory authorities around the world. However, it is important for consumers to be aware of its presence in their food products and to read labels carefully if they have allergies or dietary restrictions.

Furthermore, while e904 may have some potential benefits in terms of food safety and shelf life, its widespread use in the food industry raises ethical questions about insect exploitation. Consumers should consider supporting alternatives to e904 when possible.

In conclusion, while e904 may have its benefits as a food additive, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and make conscious decisions about what goes into their bodies. With more research being conducted on the effects of e904 on human health and alternative options being developed, it is worth keeping an eye on developments in this area. As always, maintaining a balanced and varied diet

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.