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Best Vitamin A-Rich Foods for Chickens
Ranked by vitamin a content among foods safe for chickens in the Creature Feast catalog.
#1
Carrotper 100g raw: 835mcg RAE Vitamin A (from beta-carotene)Carrots are the most concentrated source of beta-carotene among common chicken-safe vegetables, and chickens convert beta-carotene efficiently into active Vitamin A. Grate or finely chop carrots for the flock, as whole carrots are too hard for most hens to peck apart effectively.
#2
Kaleper 100g raw: 500mcg RAE Vitamin AKale delivers impressive beta-carotene alongside calcium and Vitamin K, making it a nutritional powerhouse for laying hens. The carotenoids in kale also contribute to deep orange egg yolk color, which backyard keepers prize as a sign of a well-fed, healthy flock.
#3
Pumpkinper 100g raw flesh: 426mcg RAE Vitamin APumpkin is loaded with beta-carotene and chickens devour it enthusiastically. Cut pumpkins in half and let the flock go to town on the flesh and seeds alike. The deep orange color directly transfers to egg yolks, and the seeds provide an additional deworming benefit.
#4
Spinachper 100g raw: 469mcg RAE Vitamin ASpinach is rich in beta-carotene and lutein, both of which chickens convert to Vitamin A. Despite its oxalate content limiting calcium absorption, the Vitamin A precursors in spinach are well absorbed through a different pathway. Feed 2-3 times per week as part of a greens rotation.
#5
Squashper 100g butternut squash: 532mcg RAE Vitamin AWinter squash varieties like butternut are rich in beta-carotene and store well for months, making them a reliable Vitamin A source through winter when fresh greens are scarce. Cook and halve them so hens can scoop out the soft flesh easily.
