The Benefits of Soaked Seeds for Birds

Soaked seeds are a great source of nutrients for birds. When soaked, seeds stimulate the seed to start growing, which triggers the sprouting process. This process uses stored nutrients to begin sprouting, which makes the seeds more nutritious for birds to consume. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of soaked seeds for birds, how to store them, and the nutrients found in different types of soaked seeds.

What is Soaked Seed?

Soaked seed is the process of soaking seeds in water to activate the germination process. This process increases the bioavailability of nutrients, making it easier for birds to digest and absorb them. Soaked seeds are a nutrient carrier that also absorbs more nutrients from the other foods that birds eat.

How to Store Soaked Seed?

Soaked seed is best fed after a minimum of eight hours soaking, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days after being soaked. It is essential to store soaked seeds in an airtight container to prevent contamination. We highly reccomend soaking for 24 hours for best results.

Soaked vs. Sprouting

Sprouted seed is richer in nutrients, but not all seeds will sprout simultaneously, limiting the number of different seeds you can sprout together conveniently and safely. Soaking allows bird owners to offer a large variety of seeds, legumes, grains, and nuts at one time, coming close to the health benefits of sprouted seeds. Soaking seeds is convenient, safer, and just as appealing to birds as sprouted seeds.

Can Nuts be Soaked?

Yes, and they're healthier this way. Almonds are added to the Raw for Birds Flock and Chunky Blends to tempt fussy birds, aid digestion, and can help increase the absorption of some nutrients. Popular unshelled nuts for soaking are Almond, Cashew, Hazelnut, Macadamia, Pecan, and Walnut.

Nutrients in Soaked Seeds

Different types of seeds have varying health benefits when soaked. Here are some of the nutrients found in different types of soaked seeds:

Adzuki

Adzuki is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It contains high amounts of folate, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium.

Chickpea

Chickpea is high in Magnesium and Potassium with slow-releasing carbohydrates. It can help balance blood sugars and is best paired with other high protein food like Adzuki.

Millet

Millet is a great source of probiotic dietary fiber with high levels of Magnesium, Folate, Potassium, and Phosphorus. It is most nutritious when soaked as it breaks down the phytic acid that can prevent the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Oat Groats

Oat Groats are high in Vitamin B5 and contains Beta-glucans, which can improve immune function by fighting bacterial infections and help lower inflammation.

Split Peas

Split Peas have high levels of Vitamin A, which can help prevent kidney and reproductive tract disorders.

Soaking seeds is an excellent way to offer a large variety of seeds, legumes, grains, and nuts to birds in a convenient and safe way. Soaked seeds are a nutrient carrier that also absorbs more nutrients from the other foods that birds eat, making them more nutritious for consumption. Remember that soaked seeds are best fed after eight hours of soaking and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days after being soaked.

FAQs

How long can soaked seeds be stored?

Soaked seeds can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days after being soaked.

Can all types of seeds be soaked?

Yes, most types of seeds can be soaked, but not all will sprout.

Can soaked seeds be fed to all types of birds?

Soaked seeds can be fed to most types of birds, but it's essential to check with your veterinarian to ensure that it is suitable for your bird's specific dietary needs.

Is soaking better than sprouting seeds?

Soaking is a convenient and safe way to offer a large variety of seeds, legumes, grains, and nuts to birds, but sprouted seeds are richer in nutrients. It's essential to find a balance between the two methods to provide the best nutrition for your bird.

How often should I offer soaked seeds to my bird?

Soaked seeds can be offered daily as part of a balanced diet, but it's essential to provide a variety of other foods to ensure that your bird receives all the necessary nutrients.

Wan't to start soaking for your bird? Start here.