My mother collects eggshells and then cooks them over low heat.
It’s understandable that you were initially surprised when you saw your mother boil eggshells. Many people don’t know about the many uses of eggshells. Here are some of the most common reasons your mother might boil eggshells:
- Supplement:
Eggshells are rich in calcium carbonate, an important mineral for the human body.
Boiling kills potential pathogens like salmonella.
After boiling, the eggshells can be dried and ground into a fine powder.
This powder can then be mixed into smoothies, yogurt, or other foods as a natural source of calcium.
- Plant Fertilizer:
Eggshells are an excellent natural fertilizer for plants.
They contain calcium and other trace elements that promote growth.
Cooking kills potential pathogens that could harm plants.
The cooked and dried eggshells can be crushed and worked into the soil.
- Pest Control:
Crushed eggshells can repel slugs and other pests.
The sharp edges of the shells form a natural barrier.
Here, too, cooking helps kill pathogens.
- Cleaning Agent:
Ground eggshells can be used as a gentle scouring agent.
They are good for cleaning pots, pans, or sinks.
Cooking kills potential bacteria.
- Compost:
Eggshells can be added to the compost heap.
They help improve soil structure.
Here, too, cooking helps kill pathogens. Important information:
It is important to thoroughly clean and boil eggshells before use to kill any potential pathogens.
When using eggshells as a food supplement, make sure they are very finely ground to avoid injury.
When using eggshells as fertilizer, make sure they are well crushed and evenly distributed in the soil.
So, it makes perfect sense to collect and boil eggshells. Your mother isn’t the only one doing this.