If you've got a pile of eggshells after cooking, don't toss them out. This article will show you how to transform them into Eggshell Powder, which has many practical uses. From boosting your garden to supporting your health, or even helping out your chickens, this guide will explain how to do it with a coffee grinder.
Eggshell powder is just crushed eggshells. They're mostly made of calcium, which is good for lots of things. You can use it to improve your garden soil, give your body some extra calcium, or even feed it to your pets for health. It's handy because it's full of calcium.
Benefits of Eggshell Powder
Gardening: Enhances soil structure, and provides calcium to plants, which can help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes and other plants.
Health: Can be ingested to supplement calcium, beneficial for bone health, particularly for those not consuming dairy or other calcium-rich foods.
Poultry: Adding back to chicken feed can help with eggshell strength in laying hens.
Crafts: Used in homemade paints or as a natural abrasive.
Instructions
Wash the eggshells with warm water to remove any egg bits. If they're dirty, give them a quick scrub.
Set your oven to 200°F.
Lay the cleaned eggshells out on a baking sheet.
Bake them for 10-15 minutes or until dry. This makes them easier to grind into powder.
Let the eggshells cool after baking.
Break big pieces into smaller bits to make grinding easier.
Put them in your coffee grinder, but don't overfill it. Grind in small amounts if you have a lot of shells. Grind until you get a fine powder. For an even finer texture, you might need to sift it and grind the big bits again.
Transfer the eggshell powder into an airtight container.
Label the container with the date. Eggshell powder can be stored for several months.
Tips for Use:
Gardening: Sprinkle around your plants or mix into the soil. Start with small amounts to avoid adding too much calcium to the soil.
Human Consumption: If you plan to consume it, ensure the eggs are from a trusted source. You might want to add it to smoothies or baked goods. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your diet.
Chickens: Mix a small amount into their regular feed, starting with less until you gauge the right amount.
Safety and Precautions:
Always clean the eggshells thoroughly to avoid bacterial contamination.
If using for human consumption, avoid shells from raw eggs unless you're certain they are safe.
