Every June brings two observances that, at first glance, might seem unrelated: National Egg Day on June 3rd and National Upcycling Day on June 24th. But when it comes to innovation, in our eyes these two holidays inters-egg-t. Here at Stratum Nutrition®, we see these days not only as celebrations, but as reminders of the ingenious potential in byproducts, especially from eggs!

National Egg Day: A Shell-ebration

Eggs are a symbol of nourishment, versatility, and life. Celebrated on June 3rd, National Egg Day highlights the importance of eggs in a balanced diet. Rich in high-quality protein, vitamins like B12 and D, and essential minerals such as selenium and choline, eggs are a dietary staple globally.

Yet, after the yolk and white are used, what happens to the shell? Traditionally, eggshells have been treated as waste. But at Stratum Nutrition, we see the eggshell and its membrane as a gold mine of benefits.

National Upcycling Day: Rethinking Waste

On June 24th, National Upcycling Day encourages people and industries to rethink what we consider “waste.” Unlike recycling, which breaks materials down, upcycling transforms them into products of higher value. It’s a day dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and reducing our environmental footprint.

This is where the connection becomes clear: eggshell byproducts are being upcycled into nutraceutical ingredients that benefit both people and the planet.

NEM®: Eggshell Membrane for Joint Health

Stratum Nutrition’s NEM® eggshell membrane is a standout example of upcycling in action. Derived from the thin membrane just inside the eggshell, NEM is clinically studied and shown to support joint health and cartilage protection. It contains naturally occurring compounds such as collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and key amino acids.

What makes NEM even more remarkable is its sustainability story. By upcycling what would otherwise be a waste product, Stratum not only creates a high-value nutraceutical but also contributes to reducing landfill use and supporting circular economy principles.

OVOLUX™: Harnessing Beauty From Within

Building on the eggshell’s potential, OVOLUX™ takes upcycling one step further. This ingredient captures the power of the eggshell matrix, delivering a unique form of Type I, V, and X collagen proteins that support skin health.

OVOLUX is created through a proprietary process that maintains the integrity of the eggshell’s protein profile, providing a minimally processed, bioavailable source of nutrition. Like NEM, OVOLUX represents the future of sustainable ingredient development through effective and responsibly sourcing.

The Bigger Picture

As consumers increasingly demand transparency and environmental responsibility from the brands they support, Stratum Nutrition is proud to be at the forefront of upcycling innovation. By transforming discarded eggshells into powerful, research-backed health ingredients, we embody the spirit of both National Egg Day and National Upcycling Day.

These holidays aren’t just reasons to shell-ebrate, they’re reminders of what’s possible when science, sustainability, and creativity come together.