Ingredient · Updated October 2026

Confectioner's glaze

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What is Confectioner's glaze?

Confectioner's Glaze is a shiny coating used to give candies, pills, and some foods a glossy, smooth finish. It is made from shellac, a resin secreted by the female lac bug on trees in the forests of India and Thailand.

It is used primarily for aesthetic reasons, to make products more visually appealing and to provide a protective coating. Health concerns are minimal, as it is used in small amounts. However, some people avoid it due to ethical reasons related to animal origin.

When you see Confectioner's Glaze on a label, it usually indicates the product will have a shiny appearance and possibly a smoother texture. It is not a significant source of nutrition or calories.

Commonly found in: candies, pharmaceutical pills, bakery products, coffee beans, fresh fruit, dried fruit

What to watch

Not suitable for vegans as it is derived from an insect.
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellac.

Benefits

Provides a protective coating which can extend shelf life of items.

FDA

Confectioner's Glaze is approved for use in food products by the FDA as a food additive.

Research

Research shows it is generally safe in typical usage amounts, but ethical and allergenic concerns exist.

Vegan

Confectioner's Glaze is not considered vegan because it is derived from insects.

Sources: Overview of Food Additives

Scout's take

Confectioner's glaze is a processed coating made from shellac, often used to give candies a shiny appearance. It is derived from insect secretions and is heavily processed. While generally recognized as safe, it adds no nutritional value.