Which Part of the Egg Has More Collagen?

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

The thin, almost transparent lining between an egg's shell and the egg white is remarkably rich in collagen, containing multiple types including I, V, and X. This often-overlooked component, known as the eggshell membrane, is the most concentrated source of collagen in the entire egg.

Quick Summary

This article explores the primary source of collagen in eggs, identifying the eggshell membrane as the most concentrated part. It details the types of collagen found in different egg components, contrasts their benefits, and explains why the membrane is a highly sought-after ingredient for health supplements.

Key Points

Eggshell Membrane Dominates: The eggshell membrane, the thin lining inside the shell, contains the highest and most concentrated amount of collagen in an egg.
Rich in Multiple Collagen Types: Unlike other parts, the eggshell membrane is a natural source of Type I, V, and X collagen, which are crucial for skin and joint health.
Packed with Co-Factors: The membrane's benefits are enhanced by other compounds like elastin, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine, creating a potent matrix for connective tissue support.
Yolk and White Indirectly Help: While the yolk contains trace amounts of collagen, and the white provides amino acids for collagen synthesis, they are not primary sources.
Supplements are a Key Delivery Method: For therapeutic benefits, the collagen from the eggshell membrane is best obtained through hydrolyzed supplements, which are highly bioavailable.
Supports Skin and Joint Health: Clinical studies have shown that supplements containing eggshell membrane significantly improve joint pain, stiffness, and skin elasticity.

The Surprising Power of the Eggshell Membrane

For decades, the discussion around eggs and nutrition has centered on the yolk and egg white. However, a less-known but incredibly potent part of the egg is gaining significant attention: the eggshell membrane. This fibrous, collagen-rich layer contains a unique matrix of nutrients that are highly beneficial for joint and skin health. While the egg yolk also contains some collagen, and the white offers proline for collagen production, the membrane far surpasses them in concentration and specific types of collagen.

A Closer Look at Collagen in Each Egg Component

Eggshell Membrane

Highest Concentration: The eggshell membrane is unequivocally the part of the egg with the highest concentration of collagen.
Rich Nutrient Matrix: Beyond collagen, the membrane provides a powerful combination of other beneficial compounds, including elastin, glycosaminoglycans (like chondroitin and glucosamine), and hyaluronic acid.
Diverse Collagen Types: The membrane contains several types of collagen that are highly valuable to the body, including Type I, Type V, and Type X.
Joint and Skin Benefits: This blend of nutrients and specific collagen types is particularly effective for supporting joint mobility, reducing pain and stiffness associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, and improving skin elasticity.

Egg Yolk

Contains Collagen: Studies have shown that egg yolk does indeed contain collagen, though in much smaller quantities than the membrane.
Collagen Types: The collagen in egg yolk contributes to the egg's overall nutritional value, but it is not the primary source for therapeutic applications.
Other Nutrients: The yolk is better known for its vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, which support overall health but are not targeted for collagen-specific benefits.

Egg White

No Direct Collagen: Contrary to some assumptions, egg whites do not contain pre-formed collagen.
Amino Acid Source: They are, however, rich in amino acids like proline and glycine, which are essential building blocks that the body uses to synthesize its own collagen.
Collagen Support: By providing these foundational amino acids, egg whites indirectly support the body's natural collagen production processes.

How Egg Components Compare for Collagen

To better understand the differences, here is a comparison of the collagen-related properties of each part of the egg.


Feature	Eggshell Membrane	Egg Yolk	Egg White
Collagen Concentration	Highest	Low	None (contains precursors)
Primary Collagen Types	I, V, X	Trace amounts of various types	Indirect source of amino acids
Associated Nutrients	Elastin, Hyaluronic Acid, Glucosamine	Vitamins, Minerals, Healthy Fats	Protein (Proline, Glycine)
Primary Benefit for Collagen	Direct supplementation for skin/joint repair	Minor dietary contribution	Provides building blocks for body synthesis
Dietary Consumption Method	Generally consumed as a supplement	Easily eaten in cooking	Easily eaten in cooking

The Extraction and Application of Eggshell Membrane Collagen

Because consuming the raw membrane is impractical and may not be safe, especially when applying heat, the collagen from the eggshell membrane is typically extracted and hydrolyzed to be used in dietary supplements. This process ensures maximum bioavailability and effectiveness for the body to absorb and utilize its nutrients. Studies on Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM®) supplements have shown rapid and significant improvements in joint pain, stiffness, and flexibility for those with joint and connective tissue issues. The multi-faceted composition of the membrane—including not just collagen but also supporting elements like chondroitin and hyaluronic acid—creates a synergistic effect that promotes better overall results compared to supplements with isolated components.

Beyond Supplements: Cosmetic and Other Applications

Research into the benefits of eggshell membrane extends beyond internal supplementation. For example, hydrolyzed eggshell membrane has been studied for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically. Its ability to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity has led to its use in cosmetic products aimed at reducing wrinkles and enhancing skin health. The development of sustainable methods for isolating the membrane has made this valuable resource accessible for both nutritional and cosmetic purposes.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Answer Lies in the Membrane

While the entire egg offers incredible nutritional value, when focusing specifically on collagen, the winner is clear. The eggshell membrane is the undisputed champion, providing the most concentrated and diverse array of collagen types. For those looking to maximize the benefits of egg collagen, particularly for joint and skin health, sourcing high-quality eggshell membrane supplements is the most effective approach. The yolk provides a small amount, and the white offers key building blocks, but neither can rival the potent, multi-nutrient profile of the membrane. This finding highlights the importance of not overlooking any part of this nutrient-dense food.

Clinical trial on eggshell membrane for joint pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, research indicates that egg yolks do contain collagen, but in much lower concentrations than what is found in the eggshell membrane. Its presence contributes to the egg's overall nutrition but isn't a primary source for focused collagen intake.

Egg whites do not contain pre-formed collagen. However, they are a rich source of the amino acids proline and glycine, which are essential building blocks that the body uses to create its own collagen.

The collagen in the eggshell membrane is highly effective because it comes in a nutrient matrix with other beneficial compounds like elastin, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine, creating a synergistic effect for promoting joint and skin health.

While eggs are part of a healthy diet, you cannot get a therapeutically significant amount of collagen simply by eating the egg. The highest concentration is in the membrane, which is not typically eaten. For targeted benefits, eggshell membrane supplements are the most effective method.

The eggshell membrane is a natural source of multiple types of collagen, most notably Type I, V, and X. These different types play various roles in the body, such as supporting skin elasticity and bone and cartilage formation.

The primary benefits include improved joint health (reduced pain and stiffness, better flexibility) and skin health (increased elasticity and hydration, fewer wrinkles). Its comprehensive nutrient profile is responsible for these effects.

Eggshell membrane collagen is a strong contender due to its unique blend of Type I, V, and X collagens, plus additional nutrients like elastin and glucosamine. Its specific composition makes it a highly effective choice, especially for joint-related issues, and a sustainable, non-fish alternative.