ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to investigate the biological effect of different amounts of oyster shell powder [OSP] as a source of calcium supplement, their effects on certain biochemical parameters and the acceptability of using oyster shell powder as a source of calcium supplement in bakery product such as biscuit. Twenty four adult female albino rats were divided into four groups [6 / each group], the first group was fed on standard diet as control group while the other three groups were fed on standard diet supplemented with 6.25, 12.5 and 25.0 g OSP/kg diet which provide 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 g calcium respectively. Results revealed that 98% of OSP is calcium carbonate. Groups of rats supplemented with OSP had a higher food intake,% weight gain and food efficiency ratio than control group. Kidney and heart relative weight of the group supplemented with 25g OSP was significantly higher than control. In addition, supplementation with OSP caused a significant increase in Ca intake, serum Ca, femur bone calcium and apparent Ca absorption. Biscuit supplemented with the highest level of OSP was not acceptable by the panelists. In conclusion, oyster shell powder can be used as a source of calcium supplement especially in the first and second doses