Brewer’s yeast contains protein and many of the minerals and vitamins that birds need, especially during molting and the breeding season. Among the most important minerals and vitamins contained in brewer’s yeast include, but are not limited to, potassium, selenium, zinc, copper, iron, and B-complex vitamins such as vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, B12 and others (1).
Brewer’s yeast health benefits
Brewer’s yeast benefits for birds can include but limited to (2) (3) (4):
- Acts as a prebiotic fertilizing gut flora
- A nutritional supplement rich in vitamin and minerals
- Provides the body with energy and aids in digestion
- May improve immune function and may support the nervous system
- May improves growth performance and overall health
How to use brewer’s yeast for small birds
According to bird breeder, Muhammad Abu-Surur from Palestine, brewer yeast can be used for songbirds such as canaries, finches, and other songbirds by grinding brewer’s yeast pills, which can be bought from any pharmacy, and then adding the powder to egg food. Dosage is a pinch of a teaspoon per one regular dish of egg food.
Muhammad also suggests mixing brewer yeast powder with a feed of seeds, but the seeds should be moistened slightly with a few drops of olive oil, so the yeast powder can stick to the seeds.
Personally, I use brewer yeast with water by grinding a pill (500mg) and mixing it with 4 liters of water or grinding and mixing half a pill with 2 liters of water. Don’t leave the solution inside the drinking water for the next day.
It is better to use yeast which is designated for birds and follow the recommended dosage recorded on the package. Yeast powder may be available in your area; consult your veterinarian or an experienced breeder. Follow the package instructions or your veterinarian’s.