I read that once Sunflower Seeds are de-hulled they start losing their value rapidly. If this is the case, and given the fear over peanuts, then hemp would be an ideal substitute. Also as a rider I also read from the same source that un-hulled Sunflower seeds are fairly useless as the digestive system is unable to break down the hull. Tried feeding them and never noticed pure seeds coming through and the article was very dated, so perhaps modern dieticians have found it to be incorrect. I believe parrots de-hull them before eating them, but pigeons are unable so to do. You back on the medication Donkey? :D