Calcinated egg shell (Egg-CaO), of which the main component is calcium oxide, was
evaluated in the forms of powder and aqueous solutions for their efficacies as
disinfectants against avian influenza virus (AIV), Newcastle disease virus (NDV),
infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), Salmonella Infantis and
Escherichia coli. Egg-CaO powder inactivated these viruses within 3 min
in the presence of 33% of fetal bovine serum (FBS). In Egg-CaO solutions, except AIV, all
pathogens were inactivated within 1 hr, even in the presence of 5% of FBS. Without FBS,
all pathogens, except AIV, were inactivated within 3 min, and AIV within 1 hr. In
addition, persistence of virucidal activity against AIV and NDV of Egg-CaO powder was
confirmed after exposure to sunlight for 2 weeks or resuspension with water for 7 times,
simulating field harsh environments. Chick growth test was conducted to ensure the safety
of the use of Egg-CaO powder in chicken cages and showed that it is safe to add Egg-CaO in
litter or feed. In conclusion, Egg-CaO can be useful for the enhancement of biosecurity at
farms.