Egg shell membranes

[jsnook]

Anyone found a way to simply and effectively remove the inner membrane form used egg shells?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Do you mean for feeding back to chickens?

Baking them dries them out.

 

[jsnook]

Thanks. Yes for feeding back to the chickens. Also read that add salt to the inner egg shell surface and in 24 hours the membrane will dry out.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

But that would add salt to the diet wouldn't it?

 

[jsnook]

Good point. Perhaps a hot wash after the 24 hours would eliminate salt, or would the salt have been absorbed by the shell? I think its beginning to sound risky.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I really think you're overthinking this.
Just bake or microwave the eggs and feed them back (crushed up).
The membrane isn't a problem. There's probably some protein in it.

 

[jsnook]

You are right. I quit. Baking it is.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

What makes up your flock? Do you also offer oyster shell or is the intention to give egg shells as an additional calcium source? What are you feeding?

 

[jsnook]

We are new to caring for chickens and have just started to prepare for their arrival. I have been reading several books about care and feeding of the chickens and read about utilizing the shells as a calcium supplement, not a replacement for other feeds. As a retired engineer I always want to research stuff and this was one of those times. Thanks for your input and I will take your advice.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Good for you to research thoroughly before jumping in.
You probably have a long time to wait before you need to worry about this.
Are you getting chicks, started pullets or mature hens?