Nottinghamshire claimed two early wickets to reduce Essex to 61-2 after a late start at Trent Bridge.
Persistent rain kept the players in the pavilion until 5pm but Andre Adams trapped Jaik Mickleburgh lbw and Tom Westley was caught behind by Chris Read off Darren Pattinson during the 17 overs played.
Charlie Shreck was left out of the Nottinghamshire team to accommodate the return of Ryan Sidebottom who conceded seven runs in his four-over spell.
Ravi Bopara (13) and Matt Walker (2) will resume on day two.
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