Only with caution — Swiss chard carries real risks for alpacas.
High oxalate content.
- Verdict
- With caution
- Serving size
- A leaf occasionally
- Food group
- Vegetable
- Sugar per 100 g
- 1.1 g
Risks to know
- Contains oxalates; large or regular servings can bind calcium and contribute to urinary stones
Nutrition facts (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Amount | What it means for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 92.7 g | Hydrating |
| Energy | 19 kcal | Low calorie |
| Sugars | 1.1 g | Low sugar |
| Fiber | 1.6 g | Low fiber |
| Protein | 1.8 g | |
| Fat | 0.2 g | |
| Calcium | 51 mg | |
| Phosphorus | 46 mg | |
| Vitamin C | 30.0 mg | Not required — camelids make their own |
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy — “Chard, swiss, raw” (FDC ID 169991).
Sugar compared with other treats
Grams of sugar per 100 g. Lower-sugar treats are kinder to the fore-stomach microbes and waistline.
Safer alternatives
ArtichokeIn moderationArugulaIn moderationAsparagusIn moderationBeetsIn moderationBell PeppersIn moderationBok ChoyIn moderation
Frequently asked questions
Can alpacas eat Swiss chard?
Only with caution — Swiss chard carries real risks for alpacas. High oxalate content.
How much Swiss chard can I give my alpaca?
A leaf occasionally. Treats should stay under about 5% of the diet.
How much sugar is in Swiss chard?
About 1.1 g of sugar per 100 g (USDA FoodData Central).
Can baby alpacas (crias) eat it?
Crias should get milk, then hay and pasture. Hold off on treats until they are weaned and eating forage well, and always use tiny pieces.
See the complete list of foods alpacas can and can't eat, our feeding guide and the toxic plant checker.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.