Extraction and characterization of sodium hyaluronate from quail eggshell (Coturnix japonica)

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural biopolymer with notable biological functions and wide cosmetic applications. Chicken eggshell membranes have been identified as a rich source of HA (5-10% dry weight). Given the physicochemical similarities between chicken and quail eggs, this study explores the extraction and characterization of sodium hyaluronate from quail eggshell membranes ( Coturnix Japonica ). The membranes were treated with sodium acetate solutions at concentrations of 3%, 4% and 5%, followed by dialysis (24 and 48 h), lyophilization and analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and the uronic acid content was quantified by UV-Vis spectrophotometry using the modified Stabler-Ogawa method. Higher solvent concentrations yielded greater mass, while uronic acid was slightly higher in samples extracted with lower acetate concentrations and extended dialysis. Cooked membranes showed improved clarity in the FTIR spectra, suggesting improved HA solubilization. These results support the valorization of quail eggshell waste as a sustainable source of HA, with potential applications in different areas.