Shellac

Safe CoatingNatural

Shellac is a naturally derived coating used in dietary supplements. Safety rating: Safe. It is widely considered safe at typical supplement doses. Found in 9 supplements in the GoodSupp database. A natural resin secreted by lac insects.

9 Products use this
Safe Safety rating
Coating Category
Yes Natural origin

Safety Verdict: Safe

This ingredient is rated safe for use in dietary supplements.

What is Shellac?

A natural resin secreted by lac insects.

Common Names Shellac, pharmaceutical glaze
Type Coating
Origin Natural / Plant-derived
Safety Rating Safe

Why is Shellac used in supplements?

Used as an enteric coating to protect supplements from stomach acid.

Role in supplements: Coating agent — provides a smooth outer layer for easier swallowing and moisture protection.

Should you be concerned about Shellac?

No. Shellac is widely regarded as safe for use in dietary supplements at typical levels. It has a long history of use and is accepted by major regulatory bodies.

No action needed. This ingredient is safe at amounts used in supplements.

Top-rated products containing Shellac

These 9 highest-scoring supplements in our database use Shellac.

Related Ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shellac safe in supplements?

Yes. Shellac is rated safe for use in dietary supplements at typical levels. This rating is based on regulatory assessments, published safety research, and its long history of use in the supplement industry. It is widely accepted by major regulatory bodies including the FDA and EFSA. In GoodSupp's database, 9 products contain this ingredient. Consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

What is Shellac and why is it in my supplement?

A natural resin secreted by lac insects. As a coating agent, it provides a smooth outer layer that makes tablets easier to swallow and protects them from moisture. It appears in 9 products in the GoodSupp database.

Is Shellac natural or synthetic?

Shellac is naturally derived, meaning it comes from natural sources such as plants, minerals, or animal products rather than being chemically synthesized. Natural-origin ingredients are preferred by many consumers, though it's important to note that 'natural' does not automatically mean 'safer' — safety depends on the specific substance, its purity, and the amount used. The safety rating assigned by GoodSupp is based on the ingredient's actual safety profile, not its origin.

Check Any Supplement's Ingredients

Scan a barcode with GoodSupp to instantly see safety ratings for every ingredient.

Disclaimer: GoodSupp provides independent supplement quality analysis for informational purposes only. Scores are generated algorithmically based on ingredient profiles, brand certifications, and public records. This is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Product data is sourced from manufacturer labels and public databases. GoodSupp is not affiliated with any supplement brand.