tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15257330.post-24469567128090154242008-04-01T09:31:00.000-04:002008-04-01T09:31:00.000-04:00We raise our own chickens and save the shells to crush and give back to the chickens to peck. They need the minerals to make strong shells. (Some people actually buy chicken grit for this purpose, if their chickens are free ranging.) However, if they taste raw eggs they learn to bust open the eggs that have yet to be collected from the coop, so yes, we microwave them for a minute or two before crushing them and throwing them over the fence. And, I agree, child labor is best for this task, but a mortar and pestle isn't necessary. (If I had one, I'd let them use it. More fun!)Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11106962533729909868noreply@blogger.com