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Parrot Nutrition 101

What Not to Feed

by Lianne McLeod, DVM
for About.com

Chocolate, avocado and rhubarb should not be fed. Of course, do not give any beverages containing caffeine or alcohol. Avoid processed meats or other foods high in nitrates, nitrites, sulfites, or monosodium glutamate (MSG). Onions, sprouted lima, fava and navy beans, fruit pits and apple seeds should also be avoided.

Stay away from junk foods and any foods high in fat, salt, or sugar. Birds are also lactose intolerant so milk products should be limited to small amounts of hard cheese and yogurt.

Some experts and owners are concerned about feeding peanuts in the shell, because they can be contaminated with Aspergillus fungus, which can cause respiratory illness as well as producing a toxin (aflatoxin, a potent carcinogen). If you feed raw peanuts, get good quality human grade peanuts and do not feed if there is any sign of mold. Shelled, blanched (unsalted, of course) peanut are fine. All food should be inspected and discarded if there is any signs of mold.

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