Best Selenium-Rich Foods for Chickens

Ranked by selenium content among foods safe for chickens in the Creature Feast catalog.

Sunflower Seeds per 100g: 53mcg selenium (varies by soil) Sunflower seeds are a strong selenium source, though the actual content varies significantly depending on the soil selenium levels where the seeds were grown. Selenium works alongside Vitamin E to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage, which is especially important in high-producing laying hens.

Oats per 100g dry: 28mcg selenium Oats contain moderate selenium and contribute to the antioxidant defense system when combined with adequate Vitamin E. For backyard flocks in selenium-deficient regions, grain-based selenium from oats provides some baseline protection.

Barley per 100g dry: 22mcg selenium Barley provides a small but consistent selenium contribution. In combination with other selenium sources in the diet, barley helps prevent the white muscle disease and exudative diathesis that selenium deficiency causes in poultry.

Lentils per 100g cooked: 2.8mcg selenium Lentils provide modest selenium alongside their protein and mineral benefits. For flocks relying heavily on plant-based supplements, lentils contribute to the cumulative selenium intake that protects against oxidative stress during peak egg production.