Can egg shells go in the compost?

Whether eggshells are allowed on the compost is hotly debated. While one group declares eggshells to be a health hazard, supporters point to the improved compost quality. You can find out whether you can compost the shells of the eggs in the following article.

The shells of uncooked and cooked eggs are made up of a significant amount of calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is also known as lime. Thus, these are not the typical organic materials that otherwise end up on the compost heap.

The mineral lime does not decompose to the same extent as plants. The organisms cannot decompose lime during composting. Rather, the shells crumble over time. At the end of composting, the remains are so small that you can no longer see the shells. Typical properties of the shells are:

  • 90% calcium carbonate
  • ca. 0,5 mm dick
  • brown or white color

Danger for compost

Opponents of composting eggshells fear salmonella will get into the compost . Then you fertilize your plants and the salmonella get into the food cycle. Large amounts are required for salmonella poisoning. The concentration of salmonella that could get into the human body via the compost and the plants is so low that negative health consequences are ruled out.

Tip: If you are still worried about salmonella, you should dispose of the egg shells in another way. Disposal is possible in both organic and residual waste bins.

quality of the compost

The soil in the garden is often acidic. The acid has a negative effect on the growth of the plants in your garden. Lime in the soil can neutralize this acid and eventually improve soil conditions. Lime in the fertilizer can therefore be an advantage.

Note: Depending on the type of compost, it will take 6 to 12 months to have a fertilizer ready to use.

Compost: yes or no?

Finally, the question arises whether the shells of the eggs should be composted or not. The positive effect of lime on the soil milieu speaks in favor of composting. If you are concerned about salmonella, you can continue to dispose of the eggshells in the trash. This is not necessary, however, since the shells of the eggs do not pose a threat to the soil, plants or humans in the usual household quantities.

Dispose of egg cartons

Certain types of paper can also be composted. In addition to the shells of the eggs, you can also toss traditional egg cartons in your compost.

Note: Paper and cardboard are biodegradable. Small amounts of paper do not harm composting.

frequently asked Questions

Too much lime can have a negative effect on the formation of humus, while too little lime acidifies the soil. Moderate addition of eggs to the compost heap is recommended. You can compost the eggshells that usually accumulate in a household without hesitation.

The shells of raw or cooked eggs belong to the organic waste group. This means that, in principle, it can be disposed of in the organic waste bin or on your own compost. There may be differences depending on the region.

Dying eggs is particularly popular at Easter. Organic colors or food colors are often used. Composting is usually not a problem. If necessary, a look at the packaging of the paint will help you. If the paint is not allowed to go into the organic waste, it is disposed of with the residual waste.

Kira Bellingham

I'm a homes writer and editor with more than 20 years' experience in publishing. I have worked across many titles, including Ideal Home and, of course, Homes & Gardens. My day job is as Chief Group Sub Editor across the homes and interiors titles in the group. This has given me broad experience in interiors advice on just about every subject. I'm obsessed with interiors and delighted to be part of the Homes & Gardens team.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top