The 10 Most Nutritious Fruits and Vegetables for Parrots

Petpetin Editorial Team

Petpetin Editorial Team

Updated on January 11, 2026
2 Min Read

Many parrot owners have experienced this:
“I give my parrot fruits and vegetables—so why doesn’t it seem very energetic?”

Most of the time, the issue isn’t whether fresh foods are offered, but
👉 whether those foods are actually helping the body.

The following foods aren’t just safe.
They’re the kind that, when fed regularly and rotated properly, can make a real difference over time.


🥇 Broccoli

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Why it’s good:

  • Supports immune function
  • Helps feathers grow back healthier during molting
  • Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

May help prevent:

  • Weak molting periods
  • Frequent minor illnesses
  • Low energy levels

Can be fed raw or lightly steamed. Both florets and stems are edible, and many parrots enjoy chewing them.


🥈 Carrots

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Why it’s good:

  • High in beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor)
  • Supports eyesight and skin health
  • Improves feather color and texture

May help prevent:

  • Dull or brittle feathers
  • Respiratory discomfort
  • Vitamin A deficiency

Serve raw or cooked. Cut into strips for easier chewing.


🥉 Bell Peppers

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Why it’s good:

  • Very high in vitamin C
  • Helps parrots cope with stress
  • Supports immune stability

May help prevent:

  • Frequent illness
  • Stress-related lethargy
  • Poor adaptation to new environments

Red bell peppers are the most nutritious. Seeds are safe to eat.


4️⃣ Kale

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Why it’s good:

  • High calcium content for bones and beak
  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Suitable for regular feeding

May help prevent:

  • Calcium deficiency
  • Beak growth issues
  • Long-term nutritional imbalance

Rotate with other leafy greens for best results.


5️⃣ Pumpkin

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Why it’s good:

  • High in dietary fiber
  • Gentle on the digestive system
  • Helps keep droppings regular

May help prevent:

  • Digestive irregularities
  • Appetite fluctuations
  • Mild gut discomfort

Cooked pumpkin is easier to digest. Seeds can be fed in small amounts.


6️⃣ Blueberries

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Why it’s good:

  • Strong antioxidant properties
  • Supports cellular health
  • Especially beneficial for older parrots

May help prevent:

  • Chronic inflammation
  • Age-related energy decline
  • Oxidative stress

Best offered as an occasional treat.


7️⃣ Apples (Seeds Removed)

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Why it’s good:

  • Provides dietary fiber
  • Supports digestion
  • Highly accepted by most parrots

May help prevent:

  • Mild constipation
  • Irregular bowel movements

Always remove seeds completely, as they are toxic.


8️⃣ Mango

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Why it’s good:

  • Rich in vitamins A and C
  • Supports skin and feather health
  • Very appealing to most parrots

May help prevent:

  • Dry feathers
  • Poor skin condition

Because of the sugar content, feed in moderation.


9️⃣ Peas

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Why it’s good:

  • Provides plant-based protein
  • Supports muscle and energy levels
  • Helpful during molting

May help prevent:

  • Weight loss
  • Low stamina
  • Reduced activity

Can be fed raw or lightly cooked.


🔟 Sweet Potato

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Why it’s good:

  • Extremely rich in vitamin A
  • Supports immune health
  • Easy on digestion

May help prevent:

  • Vitamin A deficiency
  • Weakened immunity

Must always be cooked before feeding.

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