From waste to product: A review on waste eggshell membrane and its advancements

The eggshell membrane (ESM), a natural biopolymer that is a by-product of the poultry industry, has attracted considerable attention because of its distinctive structural and biochemical characteristics. This review highlights the advancement in research and development of ESM, outlining past milestones, recent breakthroughs, key challenges, and future prospects. Emphasis is placed on its significance as a sustainable and adaptable biomaterial. Given the ESM’s biocompatibility, biodegradability, and capacity to promote cellular growth, recent progress in ESM research has been summarized on its utilization as a biomaterial for wound healing, tissue engineering scaffolds, and drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of ESM have broadened its potential applications in the healthcare sector. Innovations in nanotechnology and material science have opened up new possibilities for ESM-based nanocomposites with improved functionalities for environment/energy-related applications, such as heavy metal adsorption, water purification, and energy storage. Future research endeavors aim to optimize the extraction and functionalization of ESM to enhance its mechanical properties and customize its surface chemistry for specific uses in material science and engineering. This underscores the transformative potential of ESM in driving sustainable solutions, waste management, and circular economy models across multiple industrial sectors.