Is E904 Halal or Haram?

Mushbooh (Doubtful)
Name Shellac
E-Number E904
Category Glazing Agent
Source animal (insect)
Description Resin secreted by lac insects

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Why is E904 Mushbooh (Doubtful)?

Secretion of lac bug. Some scholars consider it halal as it is a secretion not the insect itself; others consider it doubtful.

E904 (Shellac) is categorized as a glazing agent and is derived from animal (insect) sources. Based on Islamic dietary guidelines, this additive is classified as Mushbooh (Doubtful).

⚠ Source: Animal (Insect)

This additive is derived from insects. The permissibility of insect-derived food additives is debated among Islamic scholars. The majority opinion considers insects impure (najis), making products derived from them haram. However, some scholars from the Maliki school of thought may permit certain insect-derived substances.

Common Products Containing E904

You may find E904 (Shellac) in the following types of products:

Halal Alternatives to E904

Since E904 is classified as doubtful, here are halal-classified alternatives in the same category that you can look for:

E901
Beeswax
Halal
E902
Candelilla Wax
Halal
E903
Carnauba Wax
Halal
E905
Microcrystalline Wax
Halal

Related Glazing Agent Additives

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E904 halal?+

E904 (Shellac) is classified as Mushbooh (Doubtful). Secretion of lac bug. Some scholars consider it halal as it is a secretion not the insect itself; others consider it doubtful.

What is E904 made from?+

E904 (Shellac) is resin secreted by lac insects. Its source is: animal (insect).

What products contain E904?+

E904 (Shellac) is commonly found in: confectionery coatings, citrus fruit coating, pills.

How can I check if E904 is in my food?+

Look for 'E904' or 'Shellac' in the ingredients list on the food packaging. In the EU, food additives must be listed by their E-number or full name. In other regions, the common name 'Shellac' may be used instead of the E-number code.

Are all glazing agent additives halal?+

No, not all glazing agent additives are halal. Out of 5 additives in this category, 4 are classified as halal. The halal status depends on the source material and manufacturing process. Always check individual E-numbers.

What are halal alternatives to E904?+

Halal alternatives in the same category include: E901 (Beeswax), E902 (Candelilla Wax), E903 (Carnauba Wax), E905 (Microcrystalline Wax). These are derived from plant, synthetic, or mineral sources and are classified as halal.

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Disclaimer: CheckMyHalal is an informational resource, not a halal certification authority. We do not issue halal certificates or religious rulings. Additive classifications are based on source material analysis and may vary by manufacturer. Always verify with the manufacturer or a recognised certification body before making dietary decisions.