Kale (Curly Kale, Collard Greens, Spring Greens)

 Feed in Moderation
  • Common Name: Kale (Curly Kale, Collard Greens, Spring Greens)
  • Latin Name: Brassica oleracea (Acephala Group)
  • Family Name: Brassicaceae
Kale has a high calcium content and only half the oxalic acid of dandelions, making it a potentially nutritious food.  

Unfortunately, like all the brassicas, it is also high in goitrogens (which interfere with iodine uptake, resulting in thyroid problems).  However, Kale also has a high iodine content, which lessens the goitrogen effect and it is therefore acceptable to feed to your tortoise in moderation, especially in winter with non-hibernating tortoises, when fresh weeds are scarce.  See Cabbage.

Please be aware that two or more goitrogenic plants should not be fed in conjunction with each other, and the sum total of goitrogenic foods should not exceed the guideline for a single plant of 'in moderation' (amber-green) or 'sparingly' (amber-red).  This will ensure that goitrogenic consumption stays within safe limits.
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