Can Chickens Eat Pineapple? A Guide to Feeding Your Flock

Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Pauline G. Carter

Yes, chickens can eat pineapple, but it should be offered in moderation. Pineapple is high in sugar and acidity, which can be hard on a chicken’s digestive system if consumed in large amounts. It’s important to remove the tough, outer skin and core before feeding pineapple to chickens, as these parts can be difficult for them to digest and potentially harmful.

When feeding pineapple to chickens, it should be cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking and ensure it is easier for them to eat. Offering pineapple as an occasional treat can provide variety in their diet and is generally safe when prepared properly and given in small quantities.

Feeding Your Chicken With Pineapple

While chickens can eat pineapple slices in different forms (raw or cooked), it is a bit too much to expect them to eat the flesh.

Therefore, I have outlined all you need to know about feeding your chickens pineapple and different ways to treat your chickens to this yummy fruit.

Is Pineapple Safe for Chicken?

Yes, pineapple is safe for your chicken to feast on as long as it is in moderate amounts. Since it aids digestion, it follows that eating large amounts of it can cause stomach upset.

However, some chicken owners have observed that the reverse is the case. Their chickens suffer from indigestion after snacking on one too many pineapples.

Also, because pineapple has high sugar content, large amounts of it can cause your chickens to become overweight and sickly. But don’t allow any of these to stop you from indulging your chickens in this yummy delight.

What are the Health Benefits of Feeding Your Chicken Pineapple?

Fed in moderation, your chicken stands to benefit a lot from pineapple. First on the list is that pineapples are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help boost the immune system. So, your birds are healthier and less prone to diseases.

Another benefit is that pineapple does not contain saturated fats or cholesterol so you can rest easy. Bromelain in pineapple also aids digestion and can help prevent cancer, arthritis, and inflammation in your birds. 

As you know, worms wreak havoc on chickens. Pineapple fruit helps to keep these worms at bay. So let us look at some of the ways you can feed your chicken pineapple.

How to Feed Your Chickens Pineapple?

You can go the easy route and toss them a slice of unpeeled pineapple for them to peck on to their heart’s content.

The downside to this method is that you have to clear out any leftovers before it becomes moldy.

Remember, moldy pineapple has mycotoxins that can severely impact your chicken’s health.

Alternatively, you can chop up the softer parts of the pineapple for your chickens. This makes it easier for them to finish and digest.

Don’t try giving them the pineapple skin alone.

Read More – Do Chickens Have Brains?

Can Chickens Eat Cooked Pineapple?

Yes, chickens can eat cooked pineapple. Cooking the pineapple may make it tastier and juicier.

As long as you do not overcook it, all the nutrients will remain intact. You can try out this option if your chickens reject raw pineapple slices.

Pineapple Nutrition Facts

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, here are the nutrition facts for raw pineapple:

Serving size: 1 cup chunks (165 g)

Conclusion

Pineapples are great for chickens. They are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and bromelain.

You can feed your chicken raw or cooked pineapple or go a step further and string up the pineapple for them to peck.

So treat your chickens to some pineapple today!