Shellac: From Isolation to Modification and Its Untapped Potential in the Packaging Application

Recently, terms such as sustainable, bio-based, biodegradable, non-toxic, or environment-benign are being found in the literature, suggesting an increase green materials for various applications future, particularly packaging application. The unavoidable shift from conventional polymers to is difficult, most bio-sourced not water-resistant. Nonetheless, Shellac, a water-resistant resin secreted by lac insect, used varnish coat, has been underutilized applications. Here, we review Shellac’s potential application replace and biopolymers. We also discuss isolation, starting insect its conversion Sticklac, Seedlac, Shellac. Further, chemistry of shellac resin, chemical structure, properties examined detail. One disadvantage Shellac that it becomes stiff over time. To enable usage extended time application, modification via physical means conferred. Furthermore, other polymer matrices effect reviewed. Lastly, non-toxic biodegradable nature explored comparing with traditional crude-based bio-based materials.