In the food industry, it is referred to as "confectioner's glaze," and can be used to give a protective, glossy coating to candies, jelly beans and ice cream cones. Since shellac is insoluble in water, it can prevent the food product from drying out by forming a layer impermeable to moisture.

What is edible shellac made from?

The hard, shiny shells on candies are often made from shellac, a resin secreted by the lac bug. You may know shellac from its more famous work in varnishes and sealants, but it's also a mainstay in pill coatings, candy, coffee beans, and even the waxy sheen on apples and other fruits and vegetables.

Are lac beetles killed for shellac?

According to the Shellac Export Promotion Council, 25 percent of shellac consists of 'insect debris'. Millions of lac bugs are systematically killed, just to make a bit of glazing agent. This is especially unfortunate as there are also plant-based glazing agents, but these are not used much.