If you’re new to raising chickens, one of the most common questions is: “What is the best feed for chickens?” Many people look for ways to save money on chicken feed, but when you break it down, raising backyard chickens can cost more than just buying eggs from the store. However, you and I both know that nothing beats fresh farm eggs!
For me, the first question I had to answer was, “Am I doing this for more than just the eggs?” And my answer was a resounding yes! Our chickens are more than just egg layers—they’re pets, part of the family.
As a mom, knowing we’re feeding our bodies with natural, high-quality food matters. We don’t always do everything perfectly, but feeding our flock a well-balanced diet is essential for the health of our chickens and the quality of the eggs they produce—which, in turn, affects the health of our family.
Choosing the Right Feed for Your Chickens
I’m not an animal nutritionist, so this is just my perspective on feeding chickens. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and if you have a system that works for you, stick with it!
When we get our baby chicks, we start them on non-medicated crumble. I add First Peep from the Baby Chick Care Kit to get them eating and jumpstart their digestive health in the first few weeks of life. I prefer non-medicated feed because the Strong Animals products offer the same benefits as medicated feed, but with a natural approach using probiotics, prebiotics and essential oils.
Transitioning to Layer Feed
As the chicks near egg-laying age, we switch them to layer crumble. While some people use pellets, we’ve found that our girls prefer the crumble. My husband accidentally bought pellets once, and while they ate it, they were a little picky about it! The nutritional value is the same; it’s just the shape that makes a difference.
We also keep crushed oysters and grit available to the flock at all times, which is crucial for their digestion and egg health.
Healthy Treats for Your Chickens
As a treat, we give our girls snacks like Happy Tract and Golden Graze, along with store-bought scratch treats or mealworms. However, it’s important to remember that these are treats, not their main source of energy. Chickens use a lot of energy regulating their bodies and producing eggs, so a balanced diet is key.
We also give them scraps, but if you’re unsure what’s safe to feed chickens, I’ve written another blog on this topic that you can check out to make sure your flock is eating the right foods!
Should You Make Your Own Chicken Feed?
I often get asked if I make our own chicken feed, and the answer is no. I’m not sure about the proper formulations needed to ensure my chickens get all the nutrients they need. Not all feeds are created equal, and after some research, we’ve settled on a chicken feed that’s mid-range—not the most expensive, but not the cheapest either. Our girls are happy and healthy, which tells me we’re doing something right.
If you’re excited about making your own feed, I recommend reaching out to a poultry nutritionist for advice. You could also create your own scratch grains using ingredients you know are safe for chickens as a good compromise.
Why a Balanced Diet Matters
Remember, we are what we eat—and that goes for chickens, too! If your flock isn’t getting the right nutrients, it can impact their gut health, feather health and egg production. Our chickens are healthy, have beautiful feathers and are great layers, which I attribute to their balanced diet and Strong Animals products!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady
First Peep - Chick Feed Supplement
First Peep is a non-medicated chick feed supplement that naturally supports digestive health in baby chicks the first few weeks of life.
Golden Graze - For Quality Eggs & Golden Yolks
Golden Graze is a daily chicken snack that promotes quality eggs with golden yolks and Omega-3 fatty acids. It contains oregano essential oils, multi-grains, cracked corn, oyster shells, marigold petals and flaxseed. Treat your hens to this healthy snack and enjoy eggsellent eggs.
Happy Tract - For Digestive Healthy & Immunity
Happy Tract is a daily chicken snack that promotes digestive health in your flock. It contains oregano, cinnamon and thyme essential oils, prebiotics, multi-grains, cracked corn and sunflower seed. Treat your feathered friends to this healthy snack.