Resinous glaze

Resinous Glaze

Resinous glaze, also known as shellac, is a natural polymer derived from the secretions of the lac insect. It is used in various industries, including the pharmaceutical industry, where it serves as a coating for tablets and capsules.

Origin and Production

Resinous glaze is produced by the lac insect, which is native to Asia. The insects secrete the resin onto the branches of host trees, where it hardens and forms a protective shell. The resin is harvested by scraping it off the branches, then it is processed and purified to produce the final product.

Uses

In the pharmaceutical industry, resinous glaze is used as a coating for tablets and capsules. It provides a shiny, appealing finish and can also help to mask unpleasant tastes. Additionally, it can protect the active ingredients in the medication from moisture and oxygen, thereby extending the shelf life of the product.

Resinous glaze is also used in the food industry, where it is often referred to as confectioner's glaze. It is used to give a shiny finish to products such as jelly beans and chocolate-covered nuts.

Safety and Regulations

Resinous glaze is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. However, it is not suitable for people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, as it is derived from insects. It is also not suitable for people with a shellac allergy.

In the European Union, resinous glaze is classified as a food additive and is identified by the E number E904.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical formulation
• Food additives
• E number

References

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