Yes, chickens can eat peanuts. As long as you feed peanuts that are not raw and are unsalted they are a healthy snack when fed in moderation. Peanuts should be fed in moderation due to their high caloric count and aflatoxin.
But, before you dump a container of peanuts out for your flock, keep reading to find out how to feed them, benefits and any watchouts.
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Are Peanuts Safe for Chickens?
Yes, peanuts are safe for chickens, but there are a few things you should know. Peanuts, and some nuts, contain a substance called aflatoxin.
Consuming aflatoxin can lead to Aflatoxicosis, sometimes known as "turkey X-disease". Aflatoxicosis can cause a whole host of problems in chickens ranging from a suppresses immune system, to organ damage, and a reduction or complete shut down of egg production and loss of quality.
Generally, this condition is a result of poor quality chicken feed, feed that is not stored properly, and the overconsumption of foods high in aflatoxin, like corn (including popcorn at times), rice, and, yes, peanuts.
With that being said, there have been studies that show roasting peanuts can reduce aflatoxins by almost 90% at 200ºC (392ºF) and boiling or pressure cooking rice can destroy between 50% and 70%. To be safe, we recommend feeding your chickens roasted or cooked, boiled or roasted, peanuts, if you feed your chickens peanuts at all.
Please keep the dangers related to aflatoxin and aflatoxicosis in mind while reading the rest of this post.
Can chickens eat peanut shells?
Yes, chickens can eat peanut shells. The shells can be very good for them too since they have a lot of antioxidants which are known to provide a wide variety of health benefits.
The best way to feed shells is to first roast them (yes, chickens can eat roasted peanuts) and then crush them up. In this form you can even feed them to baby chicks, in moderation. The shells do contain a high amount of cellulose and fiber, the latter which can lead to constipation and other digestive issues if fed too much.
Can chickens eat boiled peanuts?
Yes, chickens love boiled peanuts and it's generally safe for them to eat. However, just like regular peanuts, make sure they are plain and have no added salt.
Boiled peanuts are actually more beneficial for a chicken's health and wellbeing than either roasted or raw peanuts. In fact, according to Peanut-Institute.com, boiled peanuts have been known to have up to 4 times the amount of antioxidants as their unboiled counterparts.
Can Chickens eat Raw Peanuts?
No, chickens should not eat raw peanuts. Peanuts are not nuts, but are legumes. And they contain trypsin. Trypsin has been shown to affect growth, gut health and overall health for chickens, poultry and even squirrels.
Can Chickens eat Roasted peanuts?
Yes, chickens can eat roasted peanuts. Roasting peanuts, boiling peanuts or otherwise cooking the causes substances such as trypsin to be significantly decreased making peanuts a safe snack for feeding chickens.
Can chickens eat unsalted peanuts?
Yes, chickens can eat unsalted peanuts. Salted peanuts, however are not safe for feeding to your chickens.
How to Feed Peanuts
- Make sure you have cooked peanuts - boiled, roasted whatever.
- Aim for peanuts without salt, flavor additives etc.
- Toss a handful or two out to your chickens or offer them in a feed dish.
Make sure not to offer too many peanuts as they are calorie heavy. But these are a nice treat addition in moderation.
Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.
Benefits of Peanuts
Sure, peanuts are chock full of protein and good fats. They also contain a lot of vital vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients such as fiber, b vitamins, magnesium and potassium.
- Calcium: strengthen egg shells and bones. For more calcium, chickens can eat pears also.
- Fiber: digestive health including absorption of nutrients. Chickens can eat blueberries for even more fiber.
- Folate (B Vitamin): growth, weight gain and egg development.
- Magnesium: bone development, cellular metabolism and heart health. Feed chickens oranges for even more magnesium.
- Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism.
Feeding Chickens Peanuts FAQs
Yes, chickens can eat peanut butter - especially if it is natural and sugar free. We would also remind you of the high fat content in peanut butter which can become a health issue. And last, but not least, peanut butter can be very sticky and be a choking hazard.
Yes, peanuts can make chickens lay bigger eggs up to a certain point. A study out of California from 2004 showed that adding 2, and then 4, ounces of peanuts to a hen's daily diet increased the height, width, and weight of the egg. However, in each instance that the amount was increased to 6 oz, the hens stopped laying altogether.
Well, peanuts are actually legumes. However, most nuts are safe for chickens to eat. However, they are generally high in fat and calories so should only be fed as a snack and in moderation. The one thing you should be aware of is whether or not the nuts contain tannins; like acorns, for example.
If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.