INS 904
surface coating agents, gases, sweetenersShellac
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 904 (Shellac) halal?
Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What to do
Don't assume. Ask the brand for halal certification or source information.
Where is INS 904 used?
INS (International Numbering System) codes are maintained by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and used on food labels in many countries outside the EU. You will commonly see INS 904 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E904. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E904
INS 904 and E904 refer to the same food additive — Shellac. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E904 on the label instead.
See full E904 halal guide →About INS 904
Miscellaneous - glazing agents glazing with shellac is not Halal because alcohol is used to dissolve the shellac and then evaporate before glazing on food products. Pure shellac without alcohol is Halal because it is a insect secretion.
⚠️ Verification Required
The halal status of INS 904 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- secretion of the lac insect (Kerria lacca)
Foods that commonly contain INS 904
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 904 (Shellac) halal?
INS 904 (Shellac) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What is INS 904 used for?
INS 904 is used as a glazing agent - shiny coating on sweets and pills in food products.
What is the difference between INS 904 and E904?
INS 904 and E904 are the same additive — Shellac. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E904) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 904?
INS 904 (Shellac) is commonly found in: shiny jelly beans, chocolate-coated sweets, some fresh fruit (apple wax coating), medicine tablet coatings.
What is INS 904 made from?
INS 904 can be derived from: secretion of the lac insect (Kerria lacca).
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