Turnip (Turnip Greens, White Turnip, Swede)
Feed in Moderation- Common Name: Turnip (Turnip Greens, White Turnip, Swede)
- Latin Name: Brassica rapa var. rapa; Brassica campestris
- Family Name: Brassicaceae
Turnip (which is often called Swede in Scotland) is a member of the Brassica family and therefore high in goitrogens, which can interfere with the uptake of iodine, resulting in thyroid problems and possibly damage to liver and kidney functions. However, Turnip Greens (the leaves of the Turnip plant) are also high in calcium and in iodine which lessens the goitrogen effect, making it acceptable to feed the leaves and flowers in moderation.
Never feed the root of the Turnip to tortoises.
A variety of Turnip that has been bred especially for its edible leaves is Chinese Cabbage. See also Swede.
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.
Never feed the root of the Turnip to tortoises.
A variety of Turnip that has been bred especially for its edible leaves is Chinese Cabbage. See also Swede.
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.
