Article by Pnut King

The Rise of Bird Feed Peanuts: A Global Trend in Wildlife Care

Published on 01/13/2025 in Peanut Farming

Peanuts have long been a staple food for backyard bird enthusiasts and wildlife conservationists alike. These protein-rich, energy-dense legumes are one of the most popular choices for bird feeding globally, playing a crucial role in supporting avian populations during critical periods such as winter and migration.

In recent years, the market for bird feed peanuts has seen exponential growth, driven by a combination of ecological awareness, conservation efforts, and consumer demand for sustainable wildlife care practices. Europe, in particular, has emerged as a leader in this space, reflecting a blend of cultural tradition and regulatory oversight that prioritizes quality and biodiversity.

Global Demand for Bird Feed Peanuts

Bird feed peanuts have a universal appeal, thanks to their high nutritional value. Packed with essential fats, proteins, and calories, they serve as an energy powerhouse for various bird species, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and finches.

Globally, the bird feed market was valued at approximately $6 billion in 2023, with peanuts accounting for a significant share due to their versatility and appeal to multiple bird species. Regions such as North America and Asia are also seeing a surge in bird feed demand as urbanization drives people to create backyard habitats to connect with nature.

Key drivers of the global bird feed peanut market include:

1. Increased Interest in Backyard Birding The COVID-19 pandemic fueled a surge in backyard hobbies, including birdwatching. This renewed interest has boosted demand for bird feed products, with peanuts being a top choice.

2. Climate Change and Food Scarcity As natural food sources for birds become scarcer due to habitat loss and changing climates, supplemental feeding with peanuts has become an essential measure to sustain bird populations.

3. Educational and Conservation Campaigns Organisations worldwide are promoting bird feeding as an accessible way to engage with wildlife and support biodiversity. Campaigns in North America, for instance, highlight the benefits of providing aflatoxin-free peanuts to ensure the safety of avian species.

The European Market: A Key Player in Bird Feed Peanuts

Europe has become a global hub for the bird feed peanut market, driven by a strong culture of birdwatching, conservation initiatives, and stringent quality standards. The region’s bird feed market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2023 to 2028, with countries like the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands leading the charge.

Why Europe Stands Out:

• Cultural Traditions Feeding birds is a beloved tradition in Europe, particularly during winter months. In the UK alone, more than half of households actively feed wild birds, creating a substantial demand for high-quality peanuts.
• Regulatory Oversight European Union regulations ensure that bird feed peanuts meet strict aflatoxin standards, typically under 20 parts per billion (ppb). This focus on safety has positioned Europe as a quality benchmark in the global market.
• Conservation Organisations Driving Demand Groups like the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and BirdLife International actively promote the use of safe and nutritious bird feed products. These organisations also partner with suppliers to ensure ethical and sustainable sourcing practices.
• Market Size and Trends The European bird feed market was valued at over €4 billion in 2023, with a growing preference for organic and sustainably sourced peanuts. Countries like Belgium and the Netherlands also play a critical role as distribution hubs, exporting processed peanuts across Europe and beyond.

 From Farms to Feeders: How Peanuts Reach Birds Globally

The journey of bird feed peanuts begins in agricultural hubs like India, the United States, and Argentina, which are major producers of high-quality peanuts.

• Processing and Safety Measures To meet the demands of global markets, peanuts undergo rigorous cleaning, sorting, and aflatoxin testing. This ensures that the final product is safe for consumption by birds, as even trace amounts of toxins can be harmful.
• Sustainability in Sourcing With rising awareness about environmental sustainability, many suppliers are adopting eco-friendly farming practices. Organic peanuts, grown without harmful pesticides, are becoming increasingly popular among eco-conscious consumers.

• Export Dynamics India, one of the largest peanut exporters, plays a vital role in meeting Europe’s demand for bird feed. Companies ensure compliance with European regulations by implementing advanced testing and packaging solutions.

At Agrocrops, for instance, we priorities stringent quality checks and sustainable practices to deliver premium-grade peanuts for bird feed markets worldwide. Our partnerships with conservation organisations also enable us to cater to the specific needs of different regions, including Europe.

Organisations Supporting Bird Feeding and Conservation

• Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) The RSPB is a cornerstone of bird conservation in Europe. With over a million members, it advocates for safe feeding practices and collaborates with suppliers to ensure access to high-quality peanuts.
• BirdLife International This global conservation partnership works extensively in Europe, promoting bird-friendly habitats and raising awareness about the importance of supplemental feeding.
• National Wildlife Federation (NWF) While based in North America, the NWF’s campaigns on backyard bird feeding have had a ripple effect globally, encouraging the use of nutritious options like peanuts.
• The European Bird Census Council (EBCC) The EBCC collects data on bird populations and feeding practices, influencing market trends and conservation efforts.

A Vital Resource for Birds and Ecosystems

Bird feed peanuts do more than nourish birds—they contribute to the health of ecosystems. Birds that consume peanuts often help control insect populations, disperse seeds, and pollinate plants, creating a ripple effect of ecological benefits. Additionally, feeding birds fosters a deeper connection between humans and nature, raising awareness about the need for conservation. Urban areas, in particular, benefit from bird feeding initiatives, which bring wildlife into close proximity and inspire community involvement.

Europe, with its strong cultural traditions, stringent quality standards, and thriving market, leads the way in this global trend. By sourcing high-quality, aflatoxin-free peanuts, suppliers and exporters play a critical role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of this practice, contributing to healthier ecosystems and thriving bird populations worldwide.