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Eggs are a versatile ingredient and have become a staple in kitchens worldwide. Their nutritional value is beyond comparable and it goes beyond the cliche culinary usage too. Apart from being a cornerstone in savoury and dessert dishes, it has other uses too and most importantly all the parts of the egg can be utilised. For example eggshells, often discarded every time, can be repurposed in various ways.
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Rich in calcium carbonate and other minerals, eggshells offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for various kitchen and household needs. From enhancing soil health to serving as a natural abrasive cleaner, these unassuming shells hold untapped potential waiting to be unleashed.
Cleaning Pans
Crushed eggshells mixed with a bit of water and dish soap create a gentle abrasive paste perfect for scrubbing away stubborn stains and grease without scratching the surface. The calcium carbonate in eggshells helps break down grime while being environmentally friendly. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing, and your pans will shine like new. It's a simple yet effective way to make the most out of kitchen waste while keeping your cookware sparkling clean.
Use In Broth
After cracking eggs for various recipes, collect the shells and rinse them thoroughly. Once dried, crush them into smaller pieces. When making broth, add these crushed shells into the pot along with other ingredients. The shells infuse the broth with calcium, adding depth to its taste while also contributing to bone health. This simple kitchen hack not only reduces waste but also maximizes the utility of every ingredient.
Seed Starters
Transform kitchen waste into seed starters by repurposing eggshells. This eco-friendly solution not only reduces waste but also nurtures plant growth. Begin by carefully cracking the top of an eggshell, leaving the bottom intact as a natural pot. Fill it with soil and plant seeds, then place them in an egg carton for stability. As the seedlings grow, the eggshell provides essential nutrients like calcium to support healthy development. Once ready, transplant the seedlings, eggshell and all, into the garden, where they continue to enrich the soil.
DIY Toothpaste
DIY toothpaste incorporating eggshells offers a natural alternative. Start by thoroughly washing and drying eggshells. Grind them into a fine powder using a blender or mortar and pestle. Mix the powder with baking soda and coconut oil until you achieve a smooth paste. Add peppermint oil for a refreshing flavour. Eggshells provide calcium for strengthening teeth, while baking soda fights stains and coconut oil offers antibacterial properties.
Fertilisers
Calcium is quite important for the soil and rather than purchasing manure and artificial supplements, it's far better to utilise what you can make from natural ingredients. Eggshells are similarly rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium, which are great for plant growth. Moreover the crushed shells will also enhance the soil texture and prevent the plant from getting attacked by pests and insects. Adding them to the pots of your garden is very easy, as all you have to do is crush them and sprinkle them directly on the soil.
