Guide to Choosing the Right Chicken Feed for a Healthy Flock

I’ve been raising chickens since I was a child, and back then, chicken feed options were simple—limited choices, fewer decisions. Now, with a wider range of feeds and brands available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming! The truth is, proper nutrition is absolutely essential for maintaining flock health and promoting optimal egg production, especially if your chickens don’t free-range and rely entirely on their feed for nutrients.

Whether you’re raising chicks or managing a mixed flock with roosters, hens, and young pullets, this guide will help you make informed decisions about feed to keep your chickens happy and healthy.

Types of Chicken Feed

1. Starter Feed
Starter feed is designed specifically for young chicks, usually from 1 to 18 weeks old. This feed has a high protein content (18-24%) to support rapid growth and development in young birds. Starter feed can also be split into two categories:

• Starter (1-8 weeks): High in protein for the first phase of growth.

• Grower (8-20 weeks): With slightly lower protein, grower feed continues to support young chickens’ nutritional needs.

• Some brands have a starter/grower that can be fed from 1-20 weeks. The bag should indicate the appropriate chick age. (We use a starter/grower from chick to pullet then switch to layer feed.)

For chicks that haven’t been vaccinated for coccidiosis, you have the option to use medicated starter feed for the first few weeks. However, if they’ve been vaccinated, avoid medicated feed. Keeping a clean brooder and fresh water supply is the best way to reduce the risk of disease in young chicks.

2. Layer Feed
Once your hens reach 18 weeks old or start laying, it’s time to switch to layer feed. Layer feed is specifically formulated for egg production and includes extra calcium to support eggshell formation. This is critical for laying hens, as they need additional calcium in their diet to produce strong, healthy eggs.

3. Mixed Flock Feed
If you have a mixed flock that includes roosters or younger chickens, consider using an all-flock feed rather than a layer feed. High calcium levels in layer feed can be harmful to roosters and growing pullets. With mixed flock feed, you can still meet your flock’s nutritional needs while offering calcium supplements like oyster shells separately for the layers. This way, hens can get the extra calcium they need without risking harm to the other birds.

Essential Supplements for Chickens

Chickens’ nutritional needs shift throughout the year. Here are some helpful supplements that ensure they get all the nutrients they need:

1. Extra Protein for Molting
When chickens molt (shed old feathers and grow new ones), their protein needs increase. Consider switching to a higher protein feed or providing protein-rich treats. Our go-to choices are scrambled eggs or dried black soldier fly grubs, which help support feather regrowth.

2. Calcium for Strong Eggshells
For laying hens, extra calcium is vital. You can offer flaked or ground oyster shells, which hens can peck at as needed, or try making a DIY calcium supplement from eggshells. Here’s a quick way to create a natural calcium boost and reduce food waste:

• Save and rinse your eggshells.

• Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).

• Spread the eggshells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30 minutes until dry and brittle.

• Let cool and crush into small pieces.

• Offer these eggshell pieces to your hens as a calcium-boosting treat!

Additional Factors to Consider

Selecting the right feed goes beyond just nutritional content. Here are a few additional considerations:

• Organic vs. Non-GMO Feed: Depending on your preferences, organic and non-GMO feed can offer peace of mind by ensuring your chickens aren’t exposed to synthetic pesticides or genetically modified ingredients.

• Feed Form: Chicken feed comes in different forms, including pellets, crumbles, and whole grains. Each has its pros and cons, so it often comes down to personal preference and how well your flock responds. We generally feed our flock pellets or crumbles.

• Gradual Transition: If you’re switching to a new feed, introduce it gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing the new feed with the old, gradually increasing the amount over a week or two.

Why Balanced Nutrition Matters

Chickens require a variety of nutrients, including protein, calcium, vitamins, and minerals, to thrive. Proper nutrition is especially important for chickens that are confined, as they can’t forage for extra nutrients. When you understand your flock’s dietary needs, you can make informed feed choices that support egg production, healthy feathers, and long-term health.

Whether you’re raising chicks, maintaining a mixed flock, or supporting egg-laying hens, a well-chosen feed will contribute to a happy, productive flock.

With the right feed and a few supplements, you’ll set your chickens up for a healthy, productive life!

*Purchasing through these affiliate link helps support our blog at no cost to you! As an Amazon affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.