Apple Cider Vinegar… really?
New fads come and go when it comes to caring for parrots. We must be aware of each new passing fad, and only use those which we find have true benefit to our parrots and our lives.
However, ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar) is a holistic treatment that is here to stay. There are things you should know when using it, and of course you should know when and where to use it. However, its one of those things well worth having in your pantry!
ACV is a solution of acidic acid produced by fermentation of apples. Apple Cider Vinegar contains cholesterol-reducing pectin and the perfect balance of 19 minerals, including potassium, phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, iron, fluorine and silicon. The cider is made from apples and then turned into vinegar where acetic bacteria convert the alcohol in the cider to acetic acid. It is important to note that in order to achieve health benefits one must use the ACV with the “Mother”. Its preferable to use a slow production vinegar, not a fast one, as this allows the mother to do more of the work.
The longer fermentation period allows for the accumulation of a nontoxic slime composed of acetic acid bacteria and soluble cellulose, known as the mother. Fast methods add mother to the source liquid and then add air using a venturi pump system or a turbine to promote oxygenisation to give the fastest fermentation. In fast production processes, vinegar may be produced in a period ranging between 20 hours and three days. The mother is harmless and can be left in and ignored, or may be strained out by simply pouring the vinegar through a coffee filter.
Among the claimed benefits of ACV you will find:
Many parrot enthusiasts add ACV to their birds drinking water. Others use it in fresh food preparation, for everything from washing fresh fruits and vegetables to using it as an addition to the food to help slow spoilage. Others still use it as a cleaning agent to help reduce mold and mildew. Another use we are fond of is for rinsing sprouting seeds.
It is suggested that ACV works because it helps to make PH levels more alkaline, and therefore less welcoming to unwanted bacteria. It also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Provitamin Beta-Carotene, and Vitamin P (bioflavonoids). All things considered it is a very well rounded supplement and with its variety of uses it is something we should be welcoming not only into our aviaries but into our daily life!