Dear Parrots magazine, Quinoa Although quinoa does contain a balanced profile of the essential amino acids, it is also very high in iron. Because of this, it is suggested that you avoid feeding quinoa to bird species that have a predisposition to Iron Storage Disease (ISD). ISD has been noted in Mynahs, Quetzals, Birds of Paradise, and has been reported in some psittacines.
Current research indicates that both genetics and a variety of dietary factors contribute to the development of ISD. This disease is an extremely complex issue. Its causes can vary from species to species and with individuals within a group. It is agreed that more research is needed to more fully understand ISD. When offering quinoa to your birds do so in moderation. Feeding quinoa one to three times a week should be safe for most parrots, unless your avian vet has advised otherwise. Leslie Moran, by email
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