Can Chickens Eat Hemp Seeds? Discover the Benefits And Risks

Yes, chickens can safely eat hemp seeds as part of a balanced diet. Hemp seeds offer many potential health benefits for backyard flocks and contain valuable nutrients like protein, omega fatty acids, fiber, and minerals. When fed in moderation, hemp seeds can be a healthy supplemental treat or addition to a chicken’s regular feed ration.

Are hemp seeds safe for chickens?

Hemp seeds are considered very safe for chicken health and come from the Cannabis sativa plant. However, hemp seeds contain only trace amounts of THC and CBD, the compounds that cause marijuana’s psychoactive effects. Hemp seeds will not get chickens “high” and pose no risk of toxicities when fed responsibly. Always start slowly when introducing new treats.

When sourced from reputable suppliers, hemp seeds certified for human consumption should be toxin-free with no pesticides or other chemicals. Look for organic, non-GMO hemp seeds made specifically for animal feed or from human food grade seeds. Hemp seeds can then provide a healthy, all-natural supplement for chickens.

What are the benefits of feeding hemp seeds to chickens?

Hemp seeds offer many valuable nutrients and potential health benefits when added to a chicken’s diet in moderation:

• Excellent source of complete protein – Hemp contains all essential amino acids chickens need.
• Healthy fats like omega-3, omega-6, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Provides essential fatty acids.
• High in fiber for healthy chicken digestion and gastrointestinal health.
• Rich in vitamins A, C, E, B vitamins, and beta-carotene for overall wellness.
• Rich source of minerals like phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc and antioxidants. Helps address nutrient deficiencies.
• Anti-inflammatory and immunity boosting properties. Supports overall chicken health.
• Provides a nutritive boost over commercial feed. Supports egg production and quality.
• Natural foraging enrichment. Provides behavioral benefits.

How much hemp seed should I feed my chickens?

When first introducing hemp seeds, start with small amounts about 1-2 times per week. Slowly increase up to 1-2 tablespoons per adult chicken, given 2-3 times weekly.

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Hemp seeds can be fed sparingly in moderation as:

• A supplemental treat along with their regular feed.
• Sprinkled as part of a balanced ration or mixed feed.
• Offered free choice in a separate treat dish.

Monitor your flock’s intake and health, reducing amounts if any diarrhea or droppings change occurs. Do not replace or overwhelm daily feed with hemp seeds.

Chicks and younger pullets should be given smaller amounts of hemp, about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per bird, 2-3 times weekly. Adjust as needed based on acceptance, health, and growth.

Will hemp seeds get my chickens high?

No, hemp seeds fed responsibly to chickens will not cause intoxicating effects. Hemp seeds themselves contain only trace amounts of THC and CBD, not enough to cause impairment in chickens who lack cannabinoid receptors.

As long as you source reputable hemp seeds for consumption, there is no psychoactive risk. Avoid feeding chickens hemp plants, leaves, or flowers which may contain higher THC concentrations. Only feed hemp seeds to avoid potential issues.

Do hemp seeds contain THC?

While hemp and marijuana both derive from Cannabis sativa, hemp contains only minute levels of the psychoactive compound THC. Approved, certified hemp seed used for consumption contain on average between 0-0.3% THC by dry weight.

This tiny trace amount of THC in hemp seeds is far too low to cause any intoxicating effects in chickens. For reference, marijuana averages 15-20% THC content.

So while hemp seeds may contain non-zero traces of THC, the incredibly small amounts do not pose a risk or concern when feeding chickens responsibly.

Do hemp seeds have nutritional value for chickens?

Yes, hemp seeds provide significant nutritional value for chickens above and beyond traditional chicken feed. Hemp seeds deliver a boost of important nutrients lacking in typical commercial feeds:

• Abundant complete protein – hemp contains all 9 essential amino acids chickens need to thrive.
• Healthy fats and essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6 promote skin and feather health.
• Rich in key vitamins A, E, B complex, beta-carotene, and antioxidants for immunity.
• Excellent source of minerals including phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron to prevent deficiencies.
• High in natural fiber for healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Powerful anti-inflammatory benefits help joint health and pain relief.

The unique nutritional profile of hemp makes it more bioavailable and digestible than soy or corn. Hemp seeds offer a nutritive boost over traditional chicken feeds.

Can hemp seeds replace commercial chicken feed?

While hemp seeds provide significant nutritional value, they should not wholly replace a complete commercial feed formulated to meet all of a chicken’s dietary needs.

Hemp can be fed as a supplement but not as a sole ration. For optimal flock health, always provide a base of standard organic chicken feed or ration along with free access to insoluble grit for digestion.

Then hemp seeds can be added for extra protein, minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants missing from commercial feeds. Think of hemp as a nutritive boost to complement their existing diet.

Should I roast or soak hemp seeds before feeding chickens?

You can feed hemp seeds to chickens raw and unprocessed. But lightly roasting or soaking hemp ahead of time may offer some benefits:

• Roasting helps remove phytic acid and improves nutrient absorption.
• Soaking the seeds can soften them and improve digestion for young chicks.
• Allowing hemp seeds to sprout starts to release some enzymes.
• Roasting or soaking also provides added palatability, aroma, and taste.

If sprouting hemp, rinse and drain the sprouts well before feeding to prevent mold. Only sprout a small amount at a time to feed promptly.

Can hemp seeds cause health issues in chickens?

When fed responsibly and in moderation, hemp seeds are not known to cause adverse health effects in chickens. Monitor your flock for these signs of possible concern:

• Loose droppings or diarrhea – lower amount or stop feeding.
• Reduced appetite for normal feed – do not overwhelm diet with hemp.
• Signs of toxicity – vomiting, low energy, poor health. Discontinue use.
• Skin reactions – likely sensitivities in individual birds. Eliminate hemp.

Avoid feeding hemp plant leaves, flowers, or immature buds which may contain higher THC that can impact chickens. Always start slowly when introducing any new supplemental feed to watch for individual bird reactions. Adjust amounts accordingly for optimal flock health and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the research indicates hemp seeds can be a safe, effective, and nutritious supplement to a backyard chicken flock’s diet when used properly. While not a complete feed replacement, hemp provides protein, fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals often lacking in commercial feeds. When sourced from reputable suppliers and fed in moderation, hemp offers great nutritional benefits with no risks of anti-nutrients or toxicity in chickens. Slowly incorporate hemp seeds as part of a varied, balanced ration for improved health and nutrition. Always monitor your flock’s intake and droppings, adjusting amounts to optimize nutrition while avoiding adverse reactions. With some added hemp in their diet, your backyard chickens can thrive and live their healthiest, happiest chicken lives!

Adreena Shanum

Welcome. I’m Adreena Shanum, the proud owner of this website, and I am incredibly passionate about animals, especially poultry. I founded adreenapets.com as a labor of love, stemming from my desire to share my knowledge and experiences with poultry enthusiasts worldwide.