Higgins Sunburst Gourmet Blend is a seed-based mix for parakeets (budgies) that includes fruit and vegetable pieces. It can be a tasty part of the diet, but like any seed mix it should be paired with pellets and fresh vegetables, since seeds alone do not provide a complete diet. Always check the bag for the current ingredients and guaranteed analysis, as recipes can change.
What is in it
The maker describes the blend as a premium mix that is free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives and that includes seeds, grains and dried fruit and vegetables, with added vitamins, minerals and probiotics. Check the label on your bag to see the actual ingredient list, because we have not verified every component or percentage.
Pros
- Variety of seeds, grains and bits of fruit and vegetables that make mealtime more interesting
- No artificial colors or preservatives, according to the manufacturer
- Added vitamins and minerals, which help fill gaps in a seed diet
- A familiar format for birds that already eat seed
Cons
- Seed mixes are high in fat, and many budgies pick out favorite seeds and leave the rest, which unbalances the diet
- Seed alone can lead to obesity and vitamin A shortage
- Cost per pound is higher than basic seed
How to use it as part of a balanced diet
- Base the diet on pellets. Many avian vets suggest that formulated pellets make up a large share of a budgie’s food, with seed as a smaller part.
- Offer fresh vegetables daily. Leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, bell pepper and sprouts are good choices.
- Measure the seed. A budgie usually eats about one to two teaspoons of seed per day. Remove empty hulls so you can see what has actually been eaten.
- Use fruit sparingly. Fruit is a treat because of the sugar.
- Provide fresh water and a cuttlebone or mineral block.
For more on feeding parakeets, see plum-headed parakeet food and fortified parakeet food choices.
Is it right for your bird?
If your parakeet is healthy and eats a variety of foods, a quality mix like this can be a good part of the diet. If your bird is overweight, has a long history of eating only seed, or shows signs of vitamin A deficiency (such as flaky skin or a crusty nose), see an avian vet before making changes. Switch diets gradually over a few weeks.
Bottom Line
Higgins Sunburst Gourmet Blend is a reasonable seed mix with extra fruit and vegetable pieces, but it works best as one part of a diet that also includes pellets and fresh vegetables. Check the label on your bag and ask an avian vet for guidance on your bird.
This is general information, not veterinary advice.
