Since the nutritional requirements for birds are unknown, it is important to feed a varied diet. The vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins and fats that are required for all living creatures are necessary for shiny feathers, bright eyes, and a healthy bird. A high quality pellet must be available at all times. The daily diet should consist of (1) dried beans and peas 2) vegetables 3) fruits 4) whole grains 5) low fat animal products 6) fats (nuts and seeds).
Dried beans and peas are richer in protein than any other plant food. Since the protein is incomplete, the beans and peas must be combined with a whole grain cereal grain such as corn, brown rice, pasta or quinoa. Dried beans and peas are a 
real bargain as a protein source. They are also rich in nutrients such as B vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Dietary fat is necessary for utilization of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. The estimated fat requirement for birds is 4 to 5 daily in the diet. Do not put added oils on the seeds or on the soft foods.
A heaping spoonful of a beans/grains mixture and crumbled "birdie bread" each morning and several varieties of the Vitamin A and C rich fruits and vegetables will get your bird off to a nutritious start. A combination of the Vitamin A and C rich fruits and vegetables may be given on alternate days for variety.
Sweet potatoes and winter squash may be cooked mashed up and included in birdie bread. These items are very nutritious and inexpensive in season. Grated carrot may be added to the soft foods or used in the birdie bread. Mango, papaya and kiwi may be peeled, pureed and used in birdie bread. The tropical fruits are high in important vitamins. Most fruits and vegetables are more nutritious raw or slightly cooked. Most vitamins are affected by heat. As a general rule: the darker the flesh, the better the nutrition. Birds relish grapes and apples. The nutritional content is not high, but birds need some foods "just for the fun of it". Quinoa (keen wah) is an ancient South American grain. It was as important to South American civilizations as corn or maize was to Central and North American native peoples. It is the most nutritious grain. Quinoa may be purchased at health food stores in boxes or bulk. A quinoa/corn pasta is available. Good for birds! Good for people!
Lean, well cooked meat may be included in the daily diet, but only in moderation. Some of the additives in animal feed are present in the flesh of the animals and could be toxic to birds if offered in excess. No rare/raw meats, animal fat or skin of any kind should be offered to birds. "Crazy Corn" has two products that my birds enjoy: Rainforest Rice Pudding, Original Corn/Bean Mix. These products can be cooked monthly and frozen in serving size portions. A tablespoon of a high quality seed mix, "Nutri berries", or nut meats may be given as a treat. Hot peppers are enjoyed by birds. If served whole, the bird will eat them like an ice cream cone. Be careful about accepting a kiss from your feathered buddy after he has eaten a hot pepper. Dried or fresh peppers can be added to the cooking water to "spice up" the vegetables.
Remove pits and seeds (except squash, peppers, and melons) from fruits and vegetables before serving. The peels of some tropical fruits can cause an allergic reaction in people and may cause problems for birds. The skins of apples and oranges may be left on after being scrubbed with a brush, detergent and hot water to remove pesticides residues as well as dirt and grime. Do not feed avocado or chocolate. The things that are bad for humans sugar, salt, fat, alcohol, caffeine are bad for birds. The leafy greens (bok choy, chard, collards, mustard, turnip, kale) may be chopped and added to birdie bread if your bird will not eat them raw.
Become a label reader when you buy whole grain crackers or cereals for your bird. Buy items that are low salt, low fat, low sugar. Never feed honey, as it can contain fungi and bacteria. Eggs can contain salmonella and must be well cooked. The soft foods will sour if left in the cage for more than a couple of hours. A second helping can be served at dinnertime.
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