Avaliação de alimentos comerciais para psitacídeos

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional profile of ten commercial diets formulated for psittacine birds, assessing their adequacy in relation to nutritional requirements described in the scientific literature. Crude protein, ether extract, calcium, phosphorus and calcium-to-phosphorus ratios were analyzed and compared to values recommended for psittacines. Considerable variability was observed among products, particularly in crude protein content and calcium-to-phosphorus balance, with several formulations presenting nutritional imbalances potentially harmful to birds when used as the sole diet. Extruded diets showed greater nutritional consistency compared to mixed grain or meal-type feeds, which tended to present lower crude protein levels and increased risk of selective feeding. The literature indicates that psittacines in captivity are predisposed to metabolic disorders arising from hyperlipidic or unbalanced diets, highlighting the relevance of the present assessment. It can be concluded that the analyzed diets do not fully meet the nutritional needs of psittacines, requiring supplementation with fruits, vegetables, sprouts and forage, as well as the selection of species-appropriate formulated diets. The findings also emphasize the need for greater industrial standardization and improved labeling accuracy to support informed nutritional choices by caretakers.