Vitamins & Supplements · Collagen supplement
Eggshell Membrane (NEM)
Eggshell membrane · also called NEM, ESM, natural eggshell membrane, hydrolyzed eggshell membrane, membrana de cáscara de huevo
Eggshell membrane is the thin skin between the egg white and the shell, sold as a joint and beauty supplement. It is mainly studied for knee osteoarthritis, where small trials point to a small gain in pain and function, but results are mixed and often linked to the makers. Evidence for skin, hair and bone is thin. People with egg allergy have not been studied and should ask an allergist first.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Eggshell Membrane (NEM)
Eggshell membrane is an egg by-product sold for joints and beauty. Trials are small and mixed: low certainty for knee osteoarthritis, thinner elsewhere. Egg allergy has not been studied.
What eggshell membrane is
Eggshell membrane is the thin, tough skin between the egg white and the shell. It is a by-product of egg processing and is described as made of collagen, keratin and sugar chains called glycosaminoglycans.
Supplements are made by grinding it, or by breaking it down with enzymes or other processing. NEM is the name of one maker's ingredient and is often used as a short form.
Food versus pills
This is a processed by-product, not a food people normally eat. No source read gives amounts of membrane in foods, and no trial tested eating eggs.
Every trial on this page tested a supplement. Hydrolyzed collagen, UC-II and chicken collagen have their own pages.
What the research shows
For knee osteoarthritis, a 2024 review of five placebo-controlled trials found small gains in pain and function. Single trials were mixed: pain also fell on placebo in a 150-person trial, and an 88-person trial needed an adjusted analysis.
Skin and hair results come from two small trials linked to makers. Nails did not improve. For bone and gut health the evidence is too thin to judge.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- A by-product of egg processing
- Sold as a joint and beauty supplement
Studied for research
- Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness, low certainty
- Joint comfort after exercise, very low certainty
- Skin firmness, very low certainty
- Hair, very low certainty; nails, no effect
- Bone health and gut bacteria, insufficient evidence
Main compounds
- Collagen types X and I
- Keratin
- Glycosaminoglycans
- Lysozyme
Common forms
- Capsules and tablets
- Ground powder
- Water-soluble hydrolysed form
- Joint and beauty blends
Research links: 2024 review: eggshell membrane in knee osteoarthritis · 2021 trial: mildly processed membrane, 150 adults · 2018 trial: exercise joint discomfort in healthy women · 2020 trial: hair, skin and nails · 2025 analysis: protein make-up and gut bacteria · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Eggshell membrane (NEM, ESM)
- Common names
- Eggshell membrane (English); Natural eggshell membrane (NEM) (English); Hydrolyzed eggshell membrane (English); Membrana de cáscara de huevo (Spanish); Membrana de la cáscara del huevo (Spanish)
- Family or group
- Protein ingredient from the thin skin between the egg white and the shell. Described as made of collagen, keratin and glycosaminoglycans.
- Harvest and processing
- A by-product of poultry egg processing. It can be ground, mildly processed, or broken down with enzymes or chemicals into a water-soluble form. Quality consistency across products is a stated challenge.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Chicken collagen (UC-II); Note: Type II collagen from chicken breastbone cartilage; a different product with its own page.; Name: Hydrolyzed collagen; Note: Collagen from cattle, pig, fish or chicken broken into short peptides; has its own page.; Name: Eggshell calcium; Note: The hard shell, not the membrane; not covered here.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not assessed.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein (about 90% of the powder in one analysis) | proteins | Lysozyme C 47% and lysyl oxidase 12% of protein in one powder | Lysozyme is an egg white protein that is also an egg allergen. 16 11 | Lab |
| Collagens (type X, with type I) | collagen | Not read from a source | Type X collagen was found in hen shell membranes, with type I alongside it in uncalcified shells. Enzyme-treated membrane gave type X collagen peptides. 1 10 | Lab |
| Glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid) | sugar chains | 6.4% (0.7% sulfated) in one enzyme-treated product | Sugar chains also found in cartilage. 10 19 | Lab |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cartilage collagen breakdown | CTX-II (blood marker) | In healthy women exercising for 2 weeks, the marker was lower with the membrane than with placebo. A marker is not proof of healthier cartilage. 15 | Human data |
| Immune signals | IL-6, TNF-alpha | Sugar chains from enzyme-treated membrane made immune cells in the lab release IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Whether this happens in people is unknown. 10 | Lab |
| Gut bacteria and colitis | Not specified | In mice the membrane and lysozyme eased induced colitis signs. In healthy adults gut bacteria counts changed. No symptoms were reported. 16 | Animal research |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- In mice, radioactivity from labelled membrane reached blood and organs, including skin, within 0.5 to 72 hours, and some left undigested in faeces. Human absorption was not measured in the sources read.
- Distribution
- Mouse blood and organs including skin, liver, kidney and lung (labelled material).
- Metabolism
- Not found.
- Elimination
- Part passed in faeces unchanged (mice).
- Bioavailability
- Not compared across products.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
The supplement is a processed by-product, not a food people normally eat. No source read gives amounts of membrane in foods, and no trial tested eating eggs. Ground, mildly processed and water-soluble forms are different products.
Nutritional composition
No USDA or NIH amounts for eggshell membrane in foods were read, so none are stated. Trials tested supplements only.
1 low certainty3 very low certainty2 not enough evidence
What was looked at
The 6 benefits and uses checked for Eggshell Membrane (NEM), each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffnessLow certainty
- Joint discomfort after exercise in healthy womenVery low certainty
- Skin firmness and appearanceVery low certainty
- Hair and nailsVery low certainty
- Bone healthNot enough evidence
- Gut bacteriaNot enough evidence
Lab markers tracked in the studies
WOMAC knee scoreCTX-II (cartilage breakdown marker)Skin firmness and elasticityGut bacteria diversity
What is Eggshell Membrane (NEM) good for?
The main studied uses and how strong the human evidence is for each. Most trials are small, short and use branded products, and many are linked to the makers.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness
Low certaintySmall placebo-controlled trials gave mixed results. A 2024 pooled review of five trials found a small improvement in pain and function over placebo. Single trials were less clear: one found better pain and stiffness, one found pain fell the same on placebo, and one needed an adjusted analysis to show a gain.
6 studiesGround, mildly processed and water-soluble forms were each tested onc…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2024 review pooled 5 of 7 placebo-controlled trials: total WOMAC effect -0.34 (95% CI -0.56 to -0.13) and pain SMD -0.23 (95% CI -0.42 to -0.04). In single trials: 67 adults over 8 weeks had better pain and stiffness than placebo but not better function or overall score; 150 adults over 12 weeks had the same fall in main pain scores in both groups, with two of five KOOS sections better; 88 adults over 12 weeks had no significant gain unless results were adjusted for starting level; a trial with two amounts found pain fell in all groups, most in the higher one. Two open-label studies (39 people, no placebo) reported less pain.
Results
Mixed. Pooled results lean slightly positive, but single trials are small, short and often linked to the makers.
Effect sizes as reported
Pooled: total WOMAC -0.34; pain SMD -0.23. These are small effects.
Why this rating
Low because trials are small (67 to 150 people), last 8 to 12 weeks, use different products, differ in results, and several are paid for or run by the makers. Not rated lower because a pooled review of placebo-controlled trials leans positive.
Form and dose studied
Ground, mildly processed and water-soluble forms were each tested once; results from one form do not carry to another. Amounts used appear in the studies table.
Who was studied
Adults with knee osteoarthritis, aged about 40 to 75.
Limits
Short trials; different products; unadjusted results often not significant; maker links; no scans of the joint.
Why researchers looked
The membrane contains collagen and sugar chains found in cartilage, so researchers tested whether eating it eases worn knee joints.
Traditional use
The membrane is the thin skin between the egg white and the shell. It is a by-product of egg processing and is sold as a joint supplement. No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established in people. Lab work shows what the membrane contains; it does not show that eating it repairs cartilage.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
No serious adverse events were reported in the trials read. Egg allergy has not been studied. See the Safety tab.
Joint discomfort after exercise in healthy women
Very low certaintyOne 2-week trial in 60 healthy postmenopausal women found less recovery pain and stiffness after exercise, and a lower blood marker of cartilage breakdown, than placebo. It is one small trial by people linked to the maker.
1 studiesOne branded product; amount in the studies table.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
In 60 healthy postmenopausal women, the membrane group had lower CTX-II than placebo after 1 week (-17.2%) and 2 weeks (-9.9%). Pain straight after exercise was not different. Recovery pain and stiffness improved.
Results
Positive in one small trial; not repeated elsewhere.
Effect sizes as reported
CTX-II -17.2% at 1 week and -9.9% at 2 weeks versus placebo.
Why this rating
One small, 2-week trial, per-protocol analysis, with authors working for the maker. No repeat trial was found.
Form and dose studied
One branded product; amount in the studies table.
Who was studied
Healthy postmenopausal women.
Limits
Healthy people, very short, maker-linked, a blood marker rather than a symptom outcome for the main result.
Why researchers looked
To see whether the membrane eases the stiffness and soreness that follow unaccustomed exercise even in healthy joints.
Traditional use
No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established. A lower CTX-II marker suggests less breakdown of type II collagen, but this is a blood marker, not a scan of cartilage.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
No serious adverse events reported in this trial.
Skin firmness and appearance
Very low certaintyTwo small, maker-linked trials report better skin readings than placebo. One of them found the membrane beat a much larger amount of hydrolysed collagen on firmness and elasticity at 57 days. Neither is confirmed by an independent group.
2 studiesHydrolysed and fresh membrane products were each tested once; amounts…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
In 88 healthy middle-aged adults over 12 weeks, a hydrolysed membrane was linked to better crow's-feet appearance (4 weeks) and skin tone (8 weeks) than placebo. In a second trial in adults with signs of skin ageing, 300 mg of fresh membrane improved firmness, flexibility and elasticity at day 57 compared with both placebo and 8,000 mg of hydrolysed collagen.
Results
Positive in two small trials, both by or linked to makers.
Effect sizes as reported
No numbers in the abstracts read.
Why this rating
Two small trials, maker links, instrument or photo readings only, no independent repeat.
Form and dose studied
Hydrolysed and fresh membrane products were each tested once; amounts in the studies table.
Who was studied
Healthy middle-aged adults; adults with signs of skin ageing.
Limits
Short; number of people missing from one abstract; self-rated parts; maker links.
Why researchers looked
The membrane has collagen, and collagen supplements are sold for skin.
Traditional use
No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established. One paper's claim that the membrane 'regenerates skin structure' was not measured directly in skin tissue.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
No safety problem noted in the abstracts.
Hair and nails
Very low certaintyThe same 88-person trial reported thicker hair, less breakage and more growth than placebo, but no change in nails. It is one trial and has not been repeated.
1 studiesOne branded hydrolysed product.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
In 88 healthy middle-aged adults, hair thickness, breakage and growth were better than placebo at 4, 8 and 12 weeks on a hair scan. Nail appearance, strength and growth did not improve.
Results
Hair: positive in one trial. Nails: no effect.
Effect sizes as reported
No numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
One trial of 88 people with a possible link to the maker; not repeated.
Form and dose studied
One branded hydrolysed product.
Who was studied
Healthy middle-aged adults.
Limits
One trial; 12 weeks.
Why researchers looked
Hair and nails are made of keratin, which the membrane also contains.
Traditional use
No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None noted.
Bone health
Not enough evidenceThere is no bone density or fracture trial in people. A review of the topic mainly describes lab findings and one pilot study of pain in people with osteoporosis. Rat studies show more bone, which does not show the same in people.
2 studiesNot applicable.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2024 systematic review describes one clinical pilot study of pain in osteoporosis patients and no bone density trial.
Results
No human evidence on bone strength.
Why this rating
No controlled human trial of bone density or fractures was found; the rat study is animal-only and funded by a maker.
Who was studied
Rats; one pilot study in people.
Limits
Animal and lab results do not carry over to people.
Why researchers looked
The membrane's make-up resembles bone, and lab work suggests it may help bone-forming cells.
Traditional use
No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Animal research
Lab and animal findings only. In rats, 16 weeks of membrane gave more trabecular bone and fewer bone-resorbing cells.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None noted.
Gut bacteria
Not enough evidenceOne 8-week trial in healthy adults found changes in gut bacteria counts compared with placebo. No gut symptoms or health outcomes were reported in the abstract, so what the changes mean is unknown.
1 studiesOne powder product.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
In healthy adults, diversity of gut bacteria was higher than placebo at weeks 1 and 8 (P < 0.05). Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillales rose and Bacteroides fell at weeks 4 and 8.
Results
Bacteria counts changed. No health benefit shown.
Effect sizes as reported
Alpha diversity P < 0.05 at weeks 1 and 8.
Why this rating
One trial with a bacteria measure rather than a symptom, number of people not in the abstract, maker-linked author.
Form and dose studied
One powder product.
Who was studied
Healthy adults; mice.
Limits
No symptom outcomes.
Why researchers looked
The powder is rich in lysozyme, a protein that acts on bacteria, so researchers looked at the gut.
Traditional use
No traditional use was read from a source.
Proposed mechanism Animal research
Mouse work suggests the membrane and lysozyme reduced signs of induced colitis. Mouse findings are not human findings.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None noted.
Connections to the rest of health
How Eggshell Membrane (NEM) connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joint Support | Low certainty | Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness: Small placebo-controlled trials gave mixed results. A 2024 pooled review of five trials found a small improvement in pain and function over placebo. Single trials were less clear: one found better pain and stiffness, one found pain fell the same on placebo, and one needed an adjusted analysis to show a gain. | 5 12 9 7 2 13 | |
| Joint Support | Very low certainty | Joint discomfort after exercise in healthy women: One 2-week trial in 60 healthy postmenopausal women found less recovery pain and stiffness after exercise, and a lower blood marker of cartilage breakdown, than placebo. It is one small trial by people linked to the maker. | 15 | |
| Healthy Skin | Very low certainty | Skin firmness and appearance: Two small, maker-linked trials report better skin readings than placebo. One of them found the membrane beat a much larger amount of hydrolysed collagen on firmness and elasticity at 57 days. Neither is confirmed by an independent group. | 8 6 | |
| Healthy Hair | Very low certainty | Hair and nails: The same 88-person trial reported thicker hair, less breakage and more growth than placebo, but no change in nails. It is one trial and has not been repeated. | 8 | |
| Bone Health | Not enough evidence | Bone health: There is no bone density or fracture trial in people. A review of the topic mainly describes lab findings and one pilot study of pain in people with osteoporosis. Rat studies show more bone, which does not show the same in people. | 4 17 | |
| Digestive Health | Not enough evidence | Gut bacteria: One 8-week trial in healthy adults found changes in gut bacteria counts compared with placebo. No gut symptoms or health outcomes were reported in the abstract, so what the changes mean is unknown. | 16 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bones Joints Muscles | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness Studied for: Joint discomfort after exercise in healthy women | 5 12 9 7 2 13 15 4 17 |
| Musculoskeletal System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness Studied for: Joint discomfort after exercise in healthy women | 5 12 9 7 2 13 15 |
| Skin Hair Beauty | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Skin firmness and appearance Studied for: Hair and nails | 8 6 |
| Digestive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Gut bacteria | 16 |
E. Health conditions
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Egg allergy | Not enough evidence | Lysozyme, an egg allergen, was the most common protein in one membrane powder; no study in egg-allergic people was found. Lysozyme, an egg allergen, was the main protein in one membrane powder; no study in egg-allergic people was found. Preparation or compound: Eggshell membrane powder |
16 11 | |
| Knee osteoarthritis | Preliminary | A 2024 pooled review of five trials found small gains in pain and function; single trials were mixed. Preparation or compound: Eggshell membrane supplements |
5 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WOMAC knee score | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: slightly lower with eggshell membrane in pooled trials. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 5 12 7 |
| CTX-II (cartilage breakdown marker) | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: lower than placebo. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 15 |
| Skin firmness and elasticity | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: better than both comparison groups at day 57. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 6 |
| Gut bacteria diversity | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: higher than placebo. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 16 |
K. Biological pathways
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein (about 90% of the powder in one analysis) | Biological association | Lab | Lysozyme is an egg white protein that is also an egg allergen. | 16 11 |
| Collagens (type X, with type I) | Biological association | Lab | Type X collagen was found in hen shell membranes, with type I alongside it in uncalcified shells. Enzyme-treated membrane gave type X collagen peptides. | 1 10 |
| Glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid) | Biological association | Lab | Sugar chains also found in cartilage. | 10 19 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 26, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what the research found for 6 outcomes
Each outcome below is one thing researchers measured. Certainty is how far the evidence can be trusted, not how well it works. The full studies are on the next tab.
The evidence
The research centre for Eggshell Membrane (NEM). Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We started from our existing eggshell membrane summary, then re-read PubMed abstracts for every review, trial, lab and animal study cited, and the NHS food allergy page. Only abstracts were read, not full texts. Official fact sheets from NIH ODS and NCCIH were not read and are marked unverified.
Study library: every study we checked 20
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arias 1991 The fabrication and collagenous substructure of the eggshell membrane in the isthmus of the hen oviduct. Matrix · PMID 1725804 · DOI |
Laboratory tissue study chicken |
Hen oviduct tissue and eggshell membranes | Hen eggshell membrane tissue Oral eggshell membrane |
Type X collagen was found in the shell membranes. Type I collagen was found with it in uncalcified shell membranes. Type III was not found in the shell layers. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Which collagen types are present Limitations: Tissue staining in hens; says nothing about effects in people. Funding and conflicts: No conflict statement in the record. Read: abstract |
| Canovas 2022 Randomised Clinical Trial to Analyse the Efficacy of Eggshell Membrane to Improve Joint Functionality in Knee Osteoarthritis. Nutrients · PMID 35684140 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
Adults with knee joint pain; three groups (two amounts of eggshell membrane and placebo); number and length not given in the abstract | Eggshell membrane supplement Oral eggshell membrane Two different amounts compared (see the paper) · vs Placebo |
Pain fell in all three groups, most in the higher-amount group. Muscle strength tests rose in that group. Pain fell in every group; most in the high group (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Knee pain (VAS), knee function, muscle strength, sleep Limitations: Pain also fell on placebo. Number of people and length are not in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Grant from Torolis Explotaciones, S.L.; the authors say the funder had no role in design, analysis or publication. Read: abstract |
| Dhanapala 2015 Cracking the egg: An insight into egg hypersensitivity. Mol Immunol · PMID 25965316 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of egg allergy | Not applicable Oral eggshell membrane |
Egg allergy affects 1 to 2% of children worldwide and is mainly caused by four egg white allergens, including lysozyme. Reactions range from itching to anaphylaxis. Strict avoidance of egg is the main way to prevent reactions. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Egg allergy Limitations: Review of egg allergy in general; says nothing about eggshell membrane supplements. Funding and conflicts: No conflict statement in the record. Read: abstract |
| Fladerer 2024 Eggshell membrane as promising supplement to maintain bone health: A systematic review. Bone Rep · PMID 38872992 · DOI |
Systematic review mixed |
Review of the membrane's make-up, lab studies and clinical studies | Eggshell membrane Oral eggshell membrane |
Describes the membrane as similar to bone in make-up (collagen type I, chondroitin sulfate, dermatan sulfate, hyaluronic acid, elastin). It mentions one clinical pilot study of pain in people with osteoporosis and lab results on bone cells. No bone density trial is described. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Bone health Limitations: Mostly lab findings and one pilot study; no bone density or fracture data in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: One author is an employee of Apomedica; the authors declare no conflict of interest. Read: abstract |
| Garcia-Munoz 2024 Efficacy of Eggshell Membrane in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients · PMID 39203777 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
7 randomised placebo-controlled trials in knee osteoarthritis (5 pooled); number of people not given in the abstract | Eggshell membrane supplements (various products) Oral eggshell membrane Varied by trial Varied by trial · vs Placebo |
Pooled results showed less pain and better function than placebo. The authors call it a promising add-on and ask for larger, better trials. Total WOMAC effect -0.34; pain SMD -0.23 (Total WOMAC 95% CI -0.56 to -0.13; pain 95% CI -0.42 to -0.04) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pain and function (WOMAC, VAS, KOOS) Limitations: Abstract does not report trial quality, bias or how different the trials were. Products and lengths differed. Only 5 of 7 trials were pooled. Funding and conflicts: The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Read: abstract |
| Gonzalez-Rodriguez 2025 Comparative effects of MKARE eggshell membrane and hydrolyzed collagen as nutricosmetics on skin biophysical properties: a randomized clinical trial. Front Nutr · PMID 41613921 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
Adults showing signs of skin ageing; three groups; number not given in the abstract | Fresh eggshell membrane (branded) versus hydrolysed collagen Oral eggshell membrane 300 mg of membrane versus 8,000 mg of hydrolysed collagen (studied) Measured at 28 and 57 days · vs Placebo and hydrolysed collagen |
After 57 days the membrane group had better skin firmness/flexibility and elasticity than both the hydrolysed-collagen group and placebo. The authors' claim that the membrane 'regenerates skin structure' was not tested directly. Better than both comparison groups at day 57 (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Skin firmness, elasticity, hydration, barrier (instrument readings) Limitations: Number of people not in the abstract; instrument readings only; short. Funding and conflicts: One author employed by Arandovo SL and one by Labex (the testing lab); the authors say no other commercial ties. Read: abstract |
| Hewlings 2019 A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Prospective Clinical Trial Evaluating Water-Soluble Chicken Eggshell Membrane for Improvement in Joint Health in Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis. J Med Food · PMID 31381494 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
88 88 adults with knee osteoarthritis (44 eggshell membrane, 44 placebo) |
Water-soluble hydrolysed chicken eggshell membrane (branded) Oral eggshell membrane 450 mg once a day (studied) 12 weeks · vs Placebo |
Without adjusting for starting level, no significant gains in WOMAC, walking or range of motion. After adjusting for starting level, stiffness improved at day 5 and the poorest starters walked further. Called safe in this study. Unadjusted: not significant; adjusted: stiffness better than placebo (P < .05) (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: WOMAC, six-minute walk, knee range of motion, safety Limitations: The positive results depended on an adjusted analysis; one branded form. Funding and conflicts: Sponsored by the product maker (Biova); one author was a paid consultant for it and others received funding from it for writing. Read: abstract |
| Kalman 2020 The effect of oral hydrolyzed eggshell membrane on the appearance of hair, skin, and nails in healthy middle-aged adults: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Cosmet Dermatol · PMID 31904175 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
88 88 healthy middle-aged adults (44 eggshell membrane, 44 placebo) |
Hydrolysed eggshell membrane (branded) Oral eggshell membrane 450 mg once a day (studied) 12 weeks · vs Placebo |
Better crow's-feet appearance at 4 weeks and skin tone at 8 weeks, and better hair thickness, less breakage and more growth at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. No improvement in nails. Significant versus placebo for skin and hair; none for nails (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Hair (TrichoScan), skin (Visia photos, FACE-Q), nails (rating scales) Limitations: One 12-week trial in healthy people; appearance measures, some self-rated. Funding and conflicts: No conflict statement in the record. The same authors ran the maker-sponsored knee trial above. Read: abstract |
| Kiers 2021 Mildly Processed Natural Eggshell Membrane Alleviates Joint Pain Associated with Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. J Med Food · PMID 32633648 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
150 150 adults aged 40 to 75 with knee osteoarthritis (75 eggshell membrane, 75 placebo) |
Mildly processed chicken eggshell membrane capsule Oral eggshell membrane 300 mg once a day (studied) 12 weeks · vs Placebo |
Pain scores on the main scale fell in both groups at about the same rate. Two of five KOOS sections (Pain and Daily Life) improved more with the membrane than placebo. Main pain scale: similar fall in both groups (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Self-reported pain (NRS-P, main result at 6 weeks) and KOOS scores Limitations: The main pain measure showed no difference from placebo; only secondary questionnaire sections favoured the membrane. Funding and conflicts: No competing financial interests declared. Funder not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Lien 2022 High-efficiency decomposition of eggshell membrane by a keratinase from Meiothermus taiwanensis. Sci Rep · PMID 36038640 · DOI |
Laboratory study n/a |
Eggshell membrane broken down with an enzyme in the lab | Enzyme-treated eggshell membrane Oral eggshell membrane |
The enzyme-treated product contained type X collagen peptides (963 to 2,259 Da) and glycosaminoglycans (6.4%; 0.7% sulfated). Sugar chains from it made immune cells in the lab release IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Amino acids, collagen peptides, glycosaminoglycans, cell signals Limitations: Lab work on a processing method; not a human study. Funding and conflicts: The authors declare no competing interests. Read: abstract |
| Poulsen 2001 Allergens from fish and egg. Allergy · PMID 11298006 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of fish and egg allergens | Not applicable Oral eggshell membrane |
Egg white proteins ovomucoid, ovalbumin, ovotransferrin and lysozyme are named as allergens Gal d 1 to Gal d 4. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Egg allergens Limitations: Older review; says nothing about eggshell membrane supplements. Funding and conflicts: No conflict statement in the record. Read: abstract |
| Ruff 2009 Eggshell membrane in the treatment of pain and stiffness from osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. Clin Rheumatol · PMID 19340512 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
67 67 adults with knee osteoarthritis (34 eggshell membrane, 33 placebo) |
Branded natural eggshell membrane (NEM) capsule Oral eggshell membrane 500 mg once a day (studied in the trial) 8 weeks · vs Placebo |
Pain and stiffness responses were better than placebo at all time points (pain down 15.9% at 10 days, stiffness down 12.8%). Function and overall WOMAC were not significantly better. No serious adverse events were reported. Pain -15.9% (P = 0.036) and stiffness -12.8% (P = 0.024) at 10 days (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: WOMAC pain, stiffness, function and overall score at 10, 30 and 60 days Limitations: One branded product; 8 weeks; function and overall score did not reach significance. Funding and conflicts: Tested the maker's branded NEM product. No conflict statement in the PubMed record; the funder is not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Ruff 2009 Eggshell membrane: a possible new natural therapeutic for joint and connective tissue disorders. Results from two open-label human clinical studies. Clin Interv Aging · PMID 19554094 · DOI |
Open label studies |
39 11 people (single-arm study) and 28 people (two-arm study) with joint and connective tissue pain or stiffness |
Branded natural eggshell membrane (NEM) Oral eggshell membrane 500 mg once a day (studied) 4 weeks |
Pain fell and flexibility rose in both open-label studies. No adverse events were reported. With no placebo group, expectation and natural change cannot be separated from the product. Pain down 72.5% at 30 days (single-arm study) (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: General pain, flexibility and range-of-motion pain Limitations: No placebo group; very small; short. Funding and conflicts: Tested the maker's branded NEM product. No conflict statement in the PubMed record; the funder is not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Ruff 2012 Safety evaluation of a natural eggshell membrane-derived product. Food Chem Toxicol · PMID 22245377 · DOI |
Laboratory and animal toxicology rat |
Human cells and bacteria in the lab; rats | Branded natural eggshell membrane (NEM) Oral eggshell membrane Up to 2,000 mg per kg of body weight in rats (studied) Single dose and 90 days · vs Untreated controls |
No cell toxicity, no gene-damage signal and no signs of toxicity in rats on urine, blood, chemistry or tissue exams. The authors say it may be safe for human consumption. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cell toxicity, gene damage, acute and 90-day toxicity in rats Limitations: One maker's product; rats and lab tests, not people. Funding and conflicts: Tested the maker's branded NEM product. No conflict statement in the record; the funder is not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Ruff 2018 Beneficial effects of natural eggshell membrane versus placebo in exercise-induced joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage turnover in healthy, postmenopausal women. Clin Interv Aging · PMID 29497287 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial |
60 60 healthy postmenopausal women (30 eggshell membrane, 30 placebo) |
Branded natural eggshell membrane (NEM) Oral eggshell membrane 500 mg once a day (studied) 2 weeks, with exercise on alternate days · vs Placebo |
CTX-II was lower than placebo after 1 week (-17.2%) and 2 weeks (-9.9%). Immediate pain was not different. Recovery pain and stiffness improved. No serious adverse events. CTX-II -17.2% (P = 0.002) at 1 week; -9.9% (P = 0.042) at 2 weeks (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cartilage-breakdown marker CTX-II; exercise pain and stiffness Limitations: Healthy women, 2 weeks, per-protocol analysis. A lower blood marker is not proof of healthier cartilage. Registered as NCT02751944. Funding and conflicts: Authors include employees of ESM Technologies (the maker), an independent distributor of its product and a paid consultant. Read: abstract |
| Shimizu 2025 Pharmacokinetic Profiling Using 3H-Labeled Eggshell Membrane and Effects of Eggshell Membrane and Lysozyme Oral Supplementation on DSS-Induced Colitis and Human Gut Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci · PMID 41009682 · DOI |
Mixed lab animal human mixed |
Powdered membrane analysed in the lab; mice given labelled and unlabelled membrane; healthy adults in a double-blind trial (number not given in the abstract) | Powdered eggshell membrane supplement Oral eggshell membrane Human part: 8 weeks · vs Placebo (human part) |
Lysozyme C was the most common protein in the powder (47%), then lysyl oxidase (12%). In mice, radioactivity reached blood and organs including skin, and some left undigested in faeces. In healthy adults, gut-bacteria diversity and some bacteria groups changed over 8 weeks. No symptoms or health outcomes were reported in the abstract. Alpha diversity higher than placebo at weeks 1 and 8 (P < 0.05) (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Protein content; where radioactivity went in mice; colitis signs in mice; gut bacteria in people Limitations: Bacteria counts are not a health outcome; human sample size not in the abstract; one product. Funding and conflicts: An author was employed by Almado Inc.; the work had public research funding (JSPS). Read: abstract |
| Yashima 2026 Long-term eggshell membrane supplementation contributes to sustained bone mass by suppressing bone resorption in rats. Tissue Cell · PMID 41955929 · DOI |
Animal study rat |
Young male rats given eggshell membrane for 16 weeks | Eggshell membrane Oral eggshell membrane 16 weeks · vs Control rats |
Rats had more trabecular bone and fewer bone-resorbing cells. This is animal work and does not show the same in people. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Bone structure under the microscope and scans Limitations: Rats only. Funding and conflicts: Funding and material support from ALMADO Inc. Read: abstract |
| Zhang 2025 Comparative Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Network Meta-Analysis. Nutrients · PMID 40806131 · DOI |
Network meta analysis |
4599 39 randomised trials in knee osteoarthritis |
Seven supplements: eggshell membrane, vitamin D, Boswellia, curcumin, ginger, krill oil, collagen Oral eggshell membrane Varied Varied · vs Placebo |
No supplement, eggshell membrane included, was linked to more adverse events than placebo. Boswellia ranked highest for pain and stiffness; the abstract does not highlight eggshell membrane. The authors ask for standard amounts and forms in future trials. Not applicable for eggshell membrane (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: WOMAC and pain scores; adverse events Limitations: Eggshell membrane was a small part of the network; only the safety statement is used here. Funding and conflicts: The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Read: abstract |
| Zhang 2026 Eggshell Membrane: Composition, Extraction, Functional Properties, and High-Value Applications in Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf · PMID 41981859 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of the membrane's composition, processing and uses | Eggshell membrane Oral eggshell membrane |
Describes the membrane as a by-product of poultry egg processing made of collagen, keratin and glycosaminoglycans. Names enzymatic, chemical and physical processing methods and says quality consistency and regulatory requirements remain challenges. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Composition, processing, quality Limitations: Narrative review; not a test of any health effect. Funding and conflicts: No conflict statement; funded by Jiangxi Province research programmes. Read: abstract |
| s-nhs-food-allergy NHS. Food allergy (page says last reviewed 20 August 2026; read 2026-10-26) · Source |
Regulator health page n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: page |
What we do not know yet
- No long trial (a year or more) of eggshell membrane was read.
- No study in people with egg allergy.
- No bone density or fracture trial in people.
- No independent repeat of the skin and hair findings.
- No pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, interaction or contamination data.
- NIH ODS, NCCIH, EFSA and FDA statements were not read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue before the page changes.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 4
WOMAC knee score
Slightly lower with eggshell membrane in pooled trials in trials
A questionnaire that scores knee pain, stiffness and difficulty with daily tasks. Lower scores mean fewer problems.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
The standard way knee osteoarthritis trials track symptoms.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Small pooled change; single trials disagree.
Safety implication
No serious events reported.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Total WOMAC effect -0.34 (95% CI -0.56 to -0.13); pain SMD -0.23 (95% CI -0.42 to -0.04) | 5 pooled placebo-controlled trials in knee osteoarthritis | Eggshell membrane supplements |
| 12 | Pain and stiffness better than placebo; function and overall score not significantly better | 67 adults, 8 weeks | Branded membrane capsule |
| 7 | No significant WOMAC gain unless adjusted for starting level | 88 adults, 12 weeks | Water-soluble membrane |
CTX-II (cartilage breakdown marker)
Lower than placebo in trials
A fragment of type II collagen that cartilage releases into the blood and urine as it breaks down.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
To see whether the membrane slows breakdown of cartilage collagen after exercise.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A marker change; not shown to mean healthier cartilage.
Safety implication
None noted.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | -17.2% at 1 week (P = 0.002); -9.9% at 2 weeks (P = 0.042) versus placebo | 60 healthy postmenopausal women | Branded membrane capsule for 2 weeks |
Skin firmness and elasticity
Better than both comparison groups at day 57 in trials
Instrument readings of how well skin springs back after gentle suction.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
To compare skin mechanics between the membrane, hydrolysed collagen and placebo.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
One trial, instrument readings.
Safety implication
None noted.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Firmness/flexibility and elasticity better than hydrolysed collagen and placebo at day 57 | Adults with signs of skin ageing; number not in the abstract | 300 mg fresh membrane vs 8,000 mg hydrolysed collagen vs placebo |
Gut bacteria diversity
Higher than placebo in trials
How many different kinds of bacteria are found in a stool sample.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Why it was measured
To see whether the membrane changes the gut bacteria.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A bacteria count is not a health outcome.
Safety implication
None noted.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Alpha diversity higher at weeks 1 and 8 (P < 0.05); between-group differences from week 1 (P < 0.01) | Healthy adults; number not in the abstract | Eggshell membrane powder for 8 weeks |
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 3
- Egg allergy: the membrane has not been tested in people with egg allergy. Eggs are among the most common allergic foods, and reactions can be serious. Lysozyme is one of four egg white proteins named as egg allergens, and it was the most common protein (47%) in one eggshell membrane powder that was analysed. No study of eggshell membrane in people with egg allergy was found, and none tested whether processing removes the allergen. Ask an allergist before using it if you or your child has an egg allergy. Composition analysis plus general allergy reviews; no direct study 16 11 3 20
- Safety data in people are short. The trials read lasted 2 to 12 weeks. Four of them reported no serious adverse events or called the product well tolerated or safe. A 2025 network review of seven supplements found none, eggshell membrane included, linked to more side effects than placebo. Long-term safety is unknown. Randomised trials and network meta analysis 12 15 7 13 18
- Products differ. Ground, mildly processed, water-soluble and enzyme-treated membranes are different products. A 2026 review says keeping quality consistent is still a challenge. Joint blends add other ingredients, so a side effect cannot be pinned on the membrane alone. Narrative review 19
Side effects 2
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| No serious adverse events reported in trials Mild effects such as stomach upset were not described in the abstracts read. | Not given as a rate in the abstracts | Not applicable Not applicable | Randomised trials 12 15 |
| No increase in side effects versus placebo across seven supplements Eggshell membrane was a small part of this review. | Not given for eggshell membrane alone | Not applicable Not applicable | Network meta analysis 18 |
Liver
No liver injury from eggshell membrane was found in the sources read. In rats given the membrane daily for 90 days, blood chemistry and tissue exams showed no signs of toxicity. A liver-safety reference (LiverTox) was not opened. 14
How often. No frequency was found.
Monitoring. No agency monitoring advice was found.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Eggshell Membrane (NEM) supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 2
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription medicines (general) prescription | No mechanism found. | No interaction study between eggshell membrane and any medicine was found. | Absence of evidence Not enough evidence | Absence of a study is not proof of safety. Tell a doctor or pharmacist about all supplements, especially if you take pain relievers or other joint medicines. |
| Other joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid) supplement | Not studied. | Blends exist, but no interaction study was found. | Absence of evidence Not enough evidence | Check labels for added ingredients. Ask a pharmacist. |
Who should check first 4
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Egg allergy | Safety in egg allergy has not been studied. Ask an allergist before use, and read labels for egg-derived ingredients. | Composition analysis and allergy reviews 16 11 3 |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | No safety study was found. Ask a doctor or midwife before use. | Absence of evidence |
| Children | The trials read were in adults (aged about 40 to 75, or postmenopausal). No study in children was found. | Absence of evidence 9 15 |
| Kidney or liver disease | No study was found in people with kidney or liver disease. Ask a clinician. | Absence of evidence |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. One maker's product showed no toxicity in cell tests, bacteria tests and rats.
Animal. Rats: no signs of toxicity at up to 2,000 mg per kg of body weight a day for 90 days.
Human doses studied. Amounts used in human trials appear only in the studies tables.
High dose or long term signals. No long-term human data were found.
Overdose response. Not found.
Genotoxicity. No gene-damage signal in bacteria tests for one product.
No measurement of metals, pesticides or label accuracy in eggshell membrane supplements was found in the sources read.
Quality consistency. A 2026 review lists quality consistency and regulatory requirements as challenges for membrane ingredients. 19
Different processing. Products may be ground, mildly processed, water-soluble or enzyme-treated, and trial results for one do not carry to another. 9 7 10
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| NHS (UK) (United Kingdom) | Lists eggs among the most common allergic foods and says to call 999 if lips, mouth, throat or tongue swell, breathing is fast or difficult, or the throat is tight. Says nothing about eggshell membrane. source | 2026-08-20 |
When to get medical help
- Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, fast or difficult breathing, a tight throat or trouble swallowing after taking it: call emergency services (911 in the US).
- Hives, vomiting or wheezing after taking it, especially in a person with egg allergy: stop and get medical help.
- New, severe or swollen joint pain needs a clinician's look, not a supplement.
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is eggshell membrane?
It is the thin skin between the egg white and the shell. It is a by-product of egg processing and is made of collagen, keratin and sugar chains called glycosaminoglycans. It is sold as capsules, tablets and powders, often under the short name NEM.
Is it the same as collagen?
Does it help knee osteoarthritis?
Does it help joints after exercise?
One 2-week trial in 60 healthy postmenopausal women found less recovery pain and stiffness and a lower cartilage-breakdown marker than placebo. It was run by people linked to the maker and has not been repeated.
Is it good for skin, hair and nails?
Does it strengthen bones?
Is it safe if I have an egg allergy?
Are there side effects?
Is it safe in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for children?
How is it different from hydrolyzed collagen and UC-II?
Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen broken into short peptides, and UC-II is type II collagen from chicken cartilage. One skin trial compared the membrane with hydrolysed collagen; no trial compared it with UC-II. Each has its own page.
Do different products give the same results?
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against the sources listed.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-26
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-26
- How we research
- We started from our existing eggshell membrane summary, then re-read PubMed abstracts for every review, trial, lab and animal study cited, and the NHS food allergy page. Only abstracts were read, not full texts. Official fact sheets from NIH ODS and NCCIH were not read and are marked unverified.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown. Several trials were funded by or linked to the makers; this is flagged where the records show it.
Sources 20
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Arias JL, Fernandez MS, Dennis JE, Caplan AI. The fabrication and collagenous substructure of the eggshell membrane in the isthmus of the hen oviduct.. Matrix. 1991. PMID 1725804. DOI 10.1016/s0934-8832(11)80202-7. (abstract)
- Canovas F, Abellan-Ruiz MS, Garcia-Munoz AM et al.. Randomised Clinical Trial to Analyse the Efficacy of Eggshell Membrane to Improve Joint Functionality in Knee Osteoarthritis.. Nutrients. 2022. PMID 35684140. DOI 10.3390/nu14112340. (abstract)
- Dhanapala P, De Silva C, Doran T, Suphioglu C. Cracking the egg: An insight into egg hypersensitivity.. Mol Immunol. 2015. PMID 25965316. DOI 10.1016/j.molimm.2015.04.016. (abstract)
- Fladerer JP, Grollitsch S. Eggshell membrane as promising supplement to maintain bone health: A systematic review.. Bone Rep. 2024. PMID 38872992. DOI 10.1016/j.bonr.2024.101776. (abstract)
- Garcia-Munoz AM, Abellan-Ruiz MS, Garcia-Guillen AI et al.. Efficacy of Eggshell Membrane in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Nutrients. 2024. PMID 39203777. DOI 10.3390/nu16162640. (abstract)
- Gonzalez-Rodriguez Y, La Nuez-Garcia MA, Jimenez M et al.. Comparative effects of MKARE eggshell membrane and hydrolyzed collagen as nutricosmetics on skin biophysical properties: a randomized clinical trial.. Front Nutr. 2025. PMID 41613921. DOI 10.3389/fnut.2025.1689701. (abstract)
- Hewlings S, Kalman D, Schneider LV. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Prospective Clinical Trial Evaluating Water-Soluble Chicken Eggshell Membrane for Improvement in Joint Health in Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis.. J Med Food. 2019. PMID 31381494. DOI 10.1089/jmf.2019.0068. (abstract)
- Kalman DS, Hewlings S. The effect of oral hydrolyzed eggshell membrane on the appearance of hair, skin, and nails in healthy middle-aged adults: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020. PMID 31904175. DOI 10.1111/jocd.13275. (abstract)
- Kiers JL, Bult JHF. Mildly Processed Natural Eggshell Membrane Alleviates Joint Pain Associated with Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study.. J Med Food. 2021. PMID 32633648. DOI 10.1089/jmf.2020.0034. (abstract)
- Lien YC, Lai SJ, Lin CY et al.. High-efficiency decomposition of eggshell membrane by a keratinase from Meiothermus taiwanensis.. Sci Rep. 2022. PMID 36038640. DOI 10.1038/s41598-022-18474-4. (abstract)
- Poulsen LK, Hansen TK, Norgaard A, Vestergaard H. Allergens from fish and egg.. Allergy. 2001. PMID 11298006. DOI 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2001.00912.x. (abstract)
- Ruff KJ, Winkler A, Jackson RW, DeVore DP, Ritz BW. Eggshell membrane in the treatment of pain and stiffness from osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.. Clin Rheumatol. 2009. PMID 19340512. DOI 10.1007/s10067-009-1173-4. (abstract)
- Ruff KJ, DeVore DP, Leu MD, Robinson MA. Eggshell membrane: a possible new natural therapeutic for joint and connective tissue disorders. Results from two open-label human clinical studies.. Clin Interv Aging. 2009. PMID 19554094. DOI 10.2147/cia.s5797. (abstract)
- Ruff KJ, Endres JR, Clewell AE, Szabo JR, Schauss AG. Safety evaluation of a natural eggshell membrane-derived product.. Food Chem Toxicol. 2012. PMID 22245377. DOI 10.1016/j.fct.2011.12.036. (abstract)
- Ruff KJ, Morrison D, Duncan SA et al.. Beneficial effects of natural eggshell membrane versus placebo in exercise-induced joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage turnover in healthy, postmenopausal women.. Clin Interv Aging. 2018. PMID 29497287. DOI 10.2147/CIA.S153782. (abstract)
- Shimizu M, Sugai W, Ohto-Fujita E et al.. Pharmacokinetic Profiling Using 3H-Labeled Eggshell Membrane and Effects of Eggshell Membrane and Lysozyme Oral Supplementation on DSS-Induced Colitis and Human Gut Microbiota.. Int J Mol Sci. 2025. PMID 41009682. DOI 10.3390/ijms26189102. (abstract)
- Yashima N, Minamizono W, Suito H et al.. Long-term eggshell membrane supplementation contributes to sustained bone mass by suppressing bone resorption in rats.. Tissue Cell. 2026. PMID 41955929. DOI 10.1016/j.tice.2026.103516. (abstract)
- Zhang Y, Gui Y, Adams R et al.. Comparative Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Network Meta-Analysis.. Nutrients. 2025. PMID 40806131. DOI 10.3390/nu17152547. (abstract)
- Zhang Y, Wen Z, Wei T et al.. Eggshell Membrane: Composition, Extraction, Functional Properties, and High-Value Applications in Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals.. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2026. PMID 41981859. DOI 10.1111/1541-4337.70485. (abstract)
- . NHS. Food allergy (page says last reviewed 20 August 2026; read 2026-10-26). . . (page)
Where to buy
Check the label first. Whatever you buy, look for these:
- The amount of the active ingredient per serving, not just the front-label claim
- A third-party testing mark (USP, NSF or ConsumerLab)
- Other ingredients and allergens
- Ask a pharmacist about interactions with your medicines
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before you start any supplement, especially if you take medicines. See the Safety tab for interactions.
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