Can chickens eat tomato skins?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Chickens can eat tomato skins. Tomato skins are not toxic to chickens and can be safely consumed by them. In fact, chickens often enjoy pecking at tomatoes and will eat both the flesh and the skin.

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for chickens. They are particularly rich in vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for their overall health and immune system. The skins of tomatoes also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion for chickens.

When feeding tomatoes to your chickens, it is important to remember that moderation is key. While tomatoes are safe for chickens to eat, they should be given as a treat and not as a staple food. Too many tomatoes can disrupt the balance of a chicken’s diet and may lead to digestive issues.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the tomatoes given to chickens are fresh and not spoiled. Rotten or moldy tomatoes can cause health problems for chickens, just as they can for humans. Always check the quality of the tomatoes before feeding them to your flock.

If you have a garden and grow your own tomatoes, it is important to keep an eye on your chickens to prevent them from pecking at the plants. While the tomato skins are safe for chickens, the leaves and stems of tomato plants contain solanine, which is toxic to both humans and chickens. To protect your plants and your chickens, it is best to keep them separated.

Chickens can safely eat tomato skins. However, it is important to feed them in moderation and ensure that the tomatoes are fresh and not spoiled. Keep an eye on your chickens to prevent them from accessing tomato plants, as the leaves and stems can be toxic.