Is E904 Halal?
E904 (shellac) is a shiny coating made from a resin the lac insect secretes, used to glaze sweets, nuts, fruit and pills. Many halal certifiers do not accept it.
Shafi, Maliki, Hanbali — their opinion: it is a secretion, like honey from a bee, and not the insect itself, so it is allowed.
Hanafi, Jafari — their opinion: it comes from an insect and crude lac can contain insect parts, so it should be avoided.
Follow your own scholar.
Guidance for Muslims
E904 is not permissible for Muslims. This additive may be derived from pork or other non-halal animal sources. Look for products with halal certification.
Common Products Containing E904
This additive is commonly found in bread, baked goods, margarine, ice cream, chocolate, and processed foods. Always check the label or scan with HalalCheck.