Chemicals in Bird Seed

Bird seed is composed of different types of seeds and fruits depending on the target species, climate and season. Common chemical additives include vitamins, minerals and preservatives. Artificial colors and flavors are sometimes present. Bulk wild bird seed is often contaminated with toxins produced by mold.

  1. Captive Bird Seed Additives

    • Sunflower seeds or meats are a common component of bird seed.

      Bird seeds for domestic or pet birds can have nutrients and minerals added to augment health. These can include vitamins B, C, D, niacin and riboflavin. Minerals added include calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc and copper. Common chemical salts include sulfates and phosphates. Seaweed extracts such as alginate are sometimes added. Other additives include ascorbic and citric acid, and numerous artificial flavors and colors.

    Squirrel-Proof Bird Seed

    • Keeping squirrels out of bird feeders can be challenging.

      To make bird seed unappealing to squirrels, manufacturers sometimes add hot chili extracts to wild bird seed. Chili extracts contain capsaicin, the chemical that makes chili peppers hot. Research has shown that this sensitizes squirrels and teaches them not to steal from bird feeders. Capsaicin does not have the "hot" effect on wild birds, so it does not repel them.

    Neutral Ingredients

    • To preserve freshness, manufacturers often flood sealed bags of birdseed with nitrogen gas as a preservative. This removes oxygen and prevents spoiling. Nitrogen is completely harmless--it is the major gas in Earth's atmosphere at about 78 percent. Another common additive is mineral oil. Mineral oil is nontoxic, and is added to give birdseed a more appealing, shiny appearance. It also helps preserve the water content and improve shelf life.

    Mycotoxins

    • Mycotoxins are produced by mold.

      Wild bird seed is generated in tremendous bulk quantities, and sometimes contains natural contaminants when not properly prepared. Mycotoxins are toxic chemicals produced by mold that are prevalent in cereals used in bird seed. One report found that up to 25 percent of wild bird seed contained significant amounts of a mycotoxin known as aflatoxin. Manufacturing methods to reduce molds in bird seed include ozonation and acid-based mold washing.