As a backyard chicken owner with two hens in my family flock, I've learned firsthand what to feed—and what to avoid. When my kids asked, "What do chickens eat?" I consulted my experienced farmer friend for reliable guidance on toxic foods that could harm laying hens. Here's his comprehensive list of 25 prohibited foods, grouped by category for easy reference, to keep your birds thriving and productive.
- Avocado skin and pit. Contains persin, which can lead to cardiac issues in chickens.
- Kiwi skin and flesh. High in histamine, potentially causing allergic reactions.
- Citrus peels. From oranges, lemons, limes, tangerines, grapefruits, kumquats, bergamots, and clementines—may reduce egg production.
- Green tomatoes.
- Banana peels. Often laden with pesticides, which chickens can't tolerate well.
- Peanuts. Too high in fat for proper digestion.
- Fruit pits and seeds. Contain cyanide, leading to vomiting, breathing difficulties, and heart problems if consumed frequently.
- Raw potatoes and peels. Toxic due to solanine, a natural defense chemical harmful to animals—even small amounts (5 mg/kg) can be fatal.
- Dried beans. Contain phytohaemagglutinin, causing diarrhea and vomiting.
- Garlic, onions, shallots, and chives. Alliums destroy red blood cells due to sulfur compounds.
- Leeks and peels.
- Celery.
- Cabbage stalks.
- Peppers.
- Chilies.
- Raw eggplant.
- Rhubarb. Oxalates damage kidneys.
For many raw veggies, solanine in leaves, stems, and flowers is the issue—keep them out of the coop.
- Chocolate. Highly toxic to chickens and most animals.
- Coffee and grounds. Caffeine triggers heart palpitations and tremors—repurpose for plant fertilizer instead.
- Commercial cookies and cakes. Loaded with sugars and additives that harm hens.
- Raw, moldy, or spoiled meat and fish.
- Pre-prepared dishes. High in salt and harmful additives.
- Fast food leftovers. Too fatty for digestion.
- Chips. Excessively salty and greasy.
- Bread. Yeast can cause issues, and it may expand in the crop.
- Shrimp shells and heads. Choking hazard.
- All moldy or rotten food.
No, as this list shows—avoid these to prevent illness and ensure fresh eggs from healthy hens.
- Melon: Yes.
- Melon seeds: Yes.
- Zucchini and peels: Yes.
- Mushrooms: Yes, but cooked.
- Cucumber: Yes.
- Carrot tops: Yes.
- Parsley: Yes.
