The thin layer between an egg’s shell and its white, rich in collagen and other joint proteins.
Why it’s used: Naturally contains collagen, hyaluronic acid and glucosamine together.
Eggshell membrane is the thin, almost transparent layer that sits between an egg's hard shell and its white. If you have ever peeled a boiled egg, you will have seen it. It is a natural fibrous tissue made largely of protein, and it contains several of the same building blocks found in joint cartilage.
Analyses show it naturally contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine-related compounds, together with other proteins such as elastin. The amounts of each are small and vary with processing, so it is best thought of as a whole-food ingredient rather than a concentrated source of any one compound. Supplement makers separate the membrane from shells left over by the egg industry, then dry and mill it.
On labels you may see it as eggshell membrane, natural eggshell membrane or NEM. It is usually sold in small capsules, often in joint formulas. Researchers have studied it in small randomised trials looking at joint comfort and stiffness, with encouraging results, but the studies have been short and relatively small.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Systematic review of seven randomised controlled trials, five pooled in a meta-analysis. Eggshell membrane significantly improved total WOMAC score (effect size -0.34) and the pain subscale compared with placebo.
Randomised, double-blind, multicentre trial of 67 patients given 500 mg NEM or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Pain and stiffness responses were significantly better than placebo at 10, 30 and 60 days; overall WOMAC and function did not reach significance.
Randomised, placebo-controlled trial of 60 healthy postmenopausal women taking 500 mg NEM daily for two weeks alongside an exercise regimen. CTX-II fell versus placebo at weeks 1 and 2, and recovery pain and stiffness improved within days.
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It is the thin protein layer between an egg's shell and its white. It naturally contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin and glucosamine-related compounds. Supplements use membrane recovered from eggshells that the food industry would otherwise discard.
No, it is best avoided. Eggshell membrane is an egg product, and clinical trials excluded people with egg allergies, so there is no evidence it is safe for them. Speak to your allergist before considering it if you have any egg allergy.
Most clinical studies have used 500 mg taken once a day, usually for between one and three months. That small amount is why it typically comes in a single small capsule, rather than the large tablets common with glucosamine.
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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