What is the main component of a chicken's shell?

The main component of a chicken’s shell is calcium. The eggshell, which protects the developing chick inside, is primarily made up of calcium carbonate. This mineral not only provides structural integrity to the shell but also plays a crucial role in the overall health of the hen, as it relies on sufficient calcium intake to produce strong and healthy eggs. This is why it’s important for poultry farmers to ensure that hens have access to proper nutrition, particularly sources of calcium, such as limestone or oyster shell, to support egg production.

Protein, while vital for many bodily functions and growth, does not constitute the main material of the shell. Carbohydrates are generally energy sources rather than structural components in the eggshell. Phosphorus is another mineral beneficial for bone health and metabolic functions but is not a primary component of the eggshell structure itself. Understanding the composition of the eggshell is fundamental for poultry care and management, highlighting the importance of calcium in the diet of laying hens.