Shell

Seafood

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 0 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 0.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		0 g	0%
	Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		0 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrates		0 g	0%
	Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
	Sugars	0 g
protein		0 g	0%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		0 mg	0%
Iron		0 mg	0%
Potassium		0 mg	0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly

🍯 Low sugar

🧂 Low sodium

🧂 Low salt

🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

Fat: 0 cal (0.0%)

Protein: 0 cal (0.0%)

Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Shell

Shells, in nutritional contexts, typically refer to the outer part of foods such as eggs, nuts, or certain seafood like shellfish. While the shell itself often lacks consumable nutrients and calories, it serves as a protective layer for the nutrient-dense interior contents. For instance, in shellfish, the outer shell guards the protein-rich meat inside, while in eggs, the shell protects a nutrient-dense source of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality protein. Culinary traditions globally, particularly in seafood-heavy cuisines, value shell-protected foods for their rich and versatile nutrients. Modern food practices also explore the mineral content of ground shells, like calcium from eggshells, for supplemental or agricultural uses.

Health Benefits

• Eggshells contain high levels of calcium carbonate (approximately 40% calcium by weight), which can support bone health when properly processed and consumed.
• Seafood like shellfish offers zinc and selenium, critical for immune function and cellular repair, protected by their tough shells.
• Nuts enclosed in hard shells protect fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains shellfish, eggs, nuts

Suitable for: High-protein diets, mediterranean diets

Not suitable for: Vegan diets, nut-free diets

Selection and Storage

Store shell-protected foods, such as eggs or nuts, in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Refrigerate shellfish promptly and consume within 1-2 days for freshness.

Common Questions About Shell Nutrition

Does a shell have any nutritional value?

A shell, such as that of an egg or certain shellfish, generally has no significant nutritional content for human consumption. It consists mainly of calcium carbonate and is indigestible unless specially processed.

Is eating shells suitable for a vegan or vegetarian diet?

Shells, in their raw form, are not consumable for vegans or vegetarians because they often belong to or are derived from animals, such as eggshells or seafood shells. They are also not recommended as part of a dietary practice.

Are there any risks or benefits to consuming shells?

Consuming shells is not typically recommended. Crushed shells, like eggshell powder, may provide calcium if properly processed and sterilized. However, intact shells can pose risks such as choking or damage to the digestive tract.

What is the appropriate serving size for shells if used for calcium supplementation?

If using crushed, sterilized eggshell powder as a calcium supplement, a standard serving size is about 1 teaspoon (approximately 800-1,000 mg of calcium). Always consult a healthcare professional before adding it to your diet.

How do shells compare to other sources of dietary calcium?

Shells, like crushed eggshells, are a concentrated source of calcium but require proper processing to be safely consumed. Compared to other sources like dairy, leafy greens, or fortified foods, they lack additional nutrients like vitamin D or magnesium.

Data Sources & Scientific References