Sprouting Lentil & Mung Beans for Chickens: A Winter Forage Supplement

Ensuring your Chickens health and well-being is essential, especially during the winter months when foraging opportunities may be limited. One way to support your feathered friends during this time is by incorporating sprouted lentil and mung beans into their diet. In this blog, we'll explore how to sprout these legumes and discuss the benefits they offer to chickens, particularly in the winter when natural forage might be scarce.

Sprouting Lentil and Mung Beans: A Nutrient-Rich Treat

Sprouting lentil and mung beans can provide a nutritious boost to your chickens' diet. These legumes are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, making them an excellent supplement to their regular feed. The sprouting process enhances the nutrient content by activating enzymes that break down anti-nutritional factors, making the nutrients more bioavailable and easier for chickens to digest.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sprouting

1. Choose Quality Legumes: Start with high-quality lentil or mung bean seeds. Organic, non-GMO options are preferable.

2. Rinse and Soak: Begin by rinsing the legumes thoroughly under cool water. Then, soak them in clean water for about 8-12 hours. This soaking helps soften the seeds and kickstarts the sprouting process.

3. Drain and Rinse Again: After the soaking period, drain the water and rinse the legumes again. This prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.

4. Provide Proper Sprouting Conditions: Place the soaked legumes in a shallow container or tray. Alternatively, you can use a Mason jar. If using a Mason jar make sure to not overcrowd the sprouts. Make sure they are evenly spread out and have room to sprout. Cover the container with a breathable cloth or lid with small holes to allow air circulation.

5. Rinse and Drain Daily: Over the next few days, rinse and drain the legumes once or twice daily. This helps to keep them moist without becoming waterlogged.

6. Harvest Sprouts: Once you see small sprouts emerging, usually after 2-3 days, your sprouts are ready for harvesting. The sprouts should be around 1-2 inches in length.

7. Offer to Chickens: Place the sprouts in your chickens' feeding area. They will eagerly peck at the fresh greens, enjoying the nutritious treat.


Benefits of Sprouted Legumes for Chickens, Especially in Winter

Boosted Nutrition: Sprouted legumes are rich in protein, vitamins (A, B, C, and E), and minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium). These nutrients contribute to healthier feathers, stronger eggshells, and overall improved well-being.

Digestibility: The sprouting process breaks down complex compounds, making the nutrients more digestible for chickens. This is especially important during winter when the birds may require an extra nutritional boost.

Variety in Diet: Sprouted legumes provide variety in the chickens' diet, keeping them engaged and satisfied even when foraging options are limited.

Economical: Growing sprouts at home is a cost-effective way to supplement your chickens' feed. It also reduces dependency on commercial supplements.



Sprouting lentil and mung beans for your chickens is a simple and effective way to provide them with a nutritious winter treat. As the temperatures drop and forage becomes scarce, these sprouts can help bridge the nutritional gap and ensure your chickens stay healthy and happy throughout the colder months. Remember to monitor your chickens' consumption and gradually introduce sprouts into their diet. With proper care and attention, you'll be rewarded with content, thriving chickens that continue to lay eggs and brighten your days, even when the snow is falling outside.