7 Best Chicken Feed Types for Optimal Health That Backyard Experts Trust

Providing your chickens with the right feed isn’t just about keeping them satisfied—it’s essential for their health, egg production, and longevity. With countless options available on the market, choosing the best chicken feed can feel overwhelming for both new and experienced poultry keepers.

We’ve researched and compiled the seven most nutritious chicken feed types that promote optimal health in your flock. From protein-rich options that support feather development to specialized formulas for laying hens, these feed choices will help your backyard birds thrive.

05/15/2025 10:09 pm GMT

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Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Your Chickens

Just like humans, chickens require a balanced diet to thrive. Providing the right nutrients in proper amounts ensures your flock’s health, productivity, and longevity.

Essential Nutrients for Poultry Health

Chickens need six key nutrients for optimal health: proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. Proteins (16-20% for layers, 18-22% for broilers) support muscle development and egg production. Calcium (4% for laying hens) is critical for strong eggshells, while vitamins A, D, E, and B complex support immune function and metabolism. Fresh water must always be available, as dehydration quickly affects health and production.

How Feed Quality Impacts Egg Production

High-quality feed directly correlates with superior egg production. Hens receiving optimal nutrition lay eggs with stronger shells, vibrant yolks, and better taste profiles. Premium feeds containing 16-18% protein and 3-4% calcium maximize laying rates and egg quality. Poor nutrition often manifests as thin-shelled eggs, pale yolks, and reduced laying frequency. Even brief nutritional deficiencies can disrupt laying patterns for weeks.

1. Complete Layer Feed: The Backbone of Hen Nutrition

Key Ingredients in Quality Layer Feed

Quality layer feed contains 16-18% protein from sources like soybean and fish meal to support egg production. High calcium levels (typically 3-4%) ensure strong eggshells, while vitamins A and D plus minerals like phosphorus promote overall health. Carbohydrates from grains provide essential energy, and moderate fats help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. This balanced formulation sustains consistent laying and maintains hen health throughout their productive years.

Recommended Brands and Formulations

Purina Layena offers a reliable 16% protein formula with optimized minerals for consistent egg production. Manna Pro Layer Feed provides 16% protein with added calcium, available in non-GMO and soy-free options for health-conscious flock keepers. Small Pet Select delivers 16-18% protein in various formulations including organic and non-GMO varieties. Choose between pellets (less wasteful) or mash (more palatable), depending on your flock’s preferences. For enhanced egg quality, look for feeds fortified with prebiotics, probiotics, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

2. High-Protein Grower Feed: Perfect for Young Chickens

High-protein grower feed is specifically formulated for chickens transitioning from the chick stage to maturity. This specialized feed supports steady growth during the critical development period between 6-18 weeks of age.

Protein Requirements for Different Growth Stages

Young chickens need varying protein levels as they mature. Chicks require 18-20% protein during their first 8 weeks for rapid development. Growing pullets benefit from 16-18% protein between 6-18 weeks, supporting steady growth without excessive weight gain. Mature layers need 16-18% protein with higher calcium, while meat birds thrive on 15-18% protein with increased energy content.

Transitioning from Starter to Grower Feed

Begin transitioning chickens from starter to grower feed around 6 weeks of age. Introduce the new feed gradually by mixing it with starter feed, slowly increasing the ratio over 7-10 days. This careful transition prevents digestive upset while ensuring proper nutrition. Never feed layer formulations to birds under 18 weeks, as excessive calcium can damage developing kidneys and reproductive systems.

3. Organic Chicken Feed: Natural Nutrition Options

Organic chicken feed offers a chemical-free alternative that prioritizes both bird health and egg quality. These natural formulations provide essential nutrients while adhering to strict organic certification standards.

Benefits of Certified Organic Ingredients

Organic chicken feeds contain ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, or artificial additives. This clean nutrition translates directly to chemical-free eggs and meat from your flock. The absence of harmful substances promotes better gut health and overall chicken wellbeing, resulting in stronger birds that typically experience fewer digestive issues and illnesses.

Nutritional Content

Organic feeds deliver balanced nutrition through carefully selected ingredients that provide optimal levels of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These formulations vary by life stage:

• Organic Starter Mash (0-8 weeks): Contains higher protein levels (around 20%) to support rapid growth and development in chicks
• Organic Grower Mash (8-20 weeks): Provides moderate protein (16-18%) for continued development without excessive weight gain
• Organic Layer Mash (20+ weeks): Features increased calcium (3-4%) for strong eggshell formation while maintaining proper protein levels

The quality protein sources in organic feeds typically come from organic soybean meal rather than animal by-products, supporting sustainable farming practices.

Top Organic Feed Brands to Consider

When selecting organic chicken feed, look for USDA Organic certification to ensure compliance with strict organic standards. Premium brands like Scratch and Peck Feeds offer whole-grain organic options that chickens naturally prefer. Modesto Milling and Horizon Organic produce high-quality formulations with verified organic ingredients. For smaller flocks, Coyote Creek and Small Pet Select provide specialized organic feeds in manageable quantities suitable for backyard chicken keepers.

4. Fermented Feed: Enhancing Digestibility and Nutrient Absorption

Fermented feed represents an innovative approach to chicken nutrition that transforms ordinary feed into a probiotic-rich superfood through a simple natural process.

How to Ferment Chicken Feed at Home

Fermenting chicken feed is surprisingly simple. Start by combining regular feed (pellets or mash) with enough water to submerge it completely in a food-grade container. Cover loosely and let sit for 3-7 days at room temperature, stirring daily to prevent mold. The mixture is ready when it develops a pleasant, tangy aroma similar to sourdough. Drain excess liquid before serving to your flock, making only enough for 2-3 days of feeding at a time.

Health Benefits of Fermentation for Poultry

Fermentation dramatically improves feed digestibility by breaking down complex nutrients through beneficial bacteria action. This process increases protein availability by up to 12% and enhances vitamin content, particularly B vitamins. Your chickens will experience improved gut health, stronger immune systems, and reduced feed consumption—often eating 20% less while maintaining optimal health. The probiotic properties also help prevent common digestive issues and reduce pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract.

5. Whole Grain Blends: Encouraging Natural Foraging Behaviors

Whole grain blends, often called “scratch” or “scratch mix,” mimic chickens’ natural feeding patterns in the wild. These mixes typically contain corn, wheat, barley, and sunflower seeds that stimulate your flock’s innate scratching and pecking behaviors, promoting both physical activity and mental stimulation.

Creating a Balanced Whole Grain Mix

A proper whole grain blend should combine various grains for nutritional diversity. Start with a foundation of corn, oats, wheat, and barley, then add sunflower seeds for healthy fats. However, remember that scratch alone isn’t nutritionally complete—it’s low in protein and lacks essential vitamins and minerals your chickens need. Always pair whole grain mixes with a complete feed to ensure balanced nutrition.

Supplementing Whole Grains with Other Nutrients

Whole grains must be supplemented with protein sources like soybean meal or meat and bone meal to meet your chickens’ requirements. For laying hens, calcium supplements such as oyster shells are essential for strong eggshell production. Add vitamin-rich ingredients like alfalfa or commercial vitamin pre-mixes to address nutritional gaps. Don’t forget to provide grit, which helps chickens digest whole grains properly in their gizzards.

Integrating Whole Grains into a Balanced Diet

The “mash and grain” method works effectively for incorporating whole grains into your chickens’ diet. Offer a high-protein ration (mash) alongside whole grains to ensure complete nutrition while allowing natural foraging. This approach not only reduces feed costs but also promotes healthier, more active birds with better overall well-being. Introduce new grains gradually to prevent digestive upset, and adjust quantities based on your flock’s life stage and production needs.

6. Mash Feed: Ideal for Chicks and Senior Birds

Mash feed is a finely ground feed option that plays a crucial role in supporting the nutritional needs of both young and elderly chickens in your flock.

Benefits of Softer Texture Feed

Mash feed’s soft, fine texture makes it exceptionally easy for chicks and senior birds to consume without choking risks. You’ll find it’s particularly valuable for older chickens with dental issues or eating difficulties. During hot weather, you can mix mash with water to create a wet feed that encourages proper hydration while making nutrients more accessible.

Combining Mash with Other Feed Types

You can effectively use mash as a starter feed before transitioning young chickens to crumble or pellet varieties. When raising laying hens, combine mash with layer pellets to improve gut health and digestive efficiency. While mash provides complete nutrition, supplementing with scratch mix offers mental stimulation and variety—just ensure you use proper feeders to minimize waste.

7. Medicated Feed: When and Why to Use It

Medicated feed plays a crucial role in protecting your flock from common diseases, particularly during vulnerable life stages. Understanding when to use medicated feed and what alternatives exist can help you make informed decisions about your chickens’ health management.

Common Medications and Their Purposes

Medicated chicken feeds typically contain antibiotics and coccidiostats designed to prevent bacterial infections and coccidiosis—a potentially devastating parasitic disease. These medications are especially vital for young chicks whose immune systems aren’t fully developed. Most medicated starter feeds target specific pathogens that commonly affect backyard flocks, providing critical protection during the first 8 weeks of life.

Alternatives to Medicated Feed Options

For farmers preferring a medication-free approach, several alternatives exist. Non-medicated starter feeds rely on natural ingredients to support chick health. Feeds fortified with probiotics and prebiotics help maintain healthy gut microbiomes, strengthening immune function naturally. Natural supplements containing oregano, cinnamon, and thyme essential oils can promote digestive health without medications. Products like Happy Tract offer natural immune support for flocks without antibiotics.

Seasonal Adjustments to Your Chicken Feed Regimen

Just like humans, chickens have different nutritional needs as the seasons change. Adjusting your flock’s feeding schedule and diet composition throughout the year ensures they maintain optimal health regardless of environmental conditions.

Winter vs. Summer Feeding Considerations

During winter, chickens burn more calories to stay warm. Increase their carbohydrate intake by offering chicken scratch grains before roosting time. Layer feeds may need adjustments to provide additional energy for maintaining body heat while supporting egg production.

In summer, chickens typically eat less due to heat stress. Compensate by providing feed with slightly higher protein content (18% instead of 16%) to ensure they still get sufficient nutrients despite reduced consumption. Consider feeding during cooler morning and evening hours when birds are more active.

Supplemental Treats for Optimal Health

Grit is essential for proper digestion, especially for chickens without natural foraging access. Provide insoluble grit separately from feed to help birds grind food in their gizzards.

Calcium supplements like crushed oyster shells are crucial for laying hens to produce strong eggshells. Offer these separately so birds can self-regulate intake based on their needs.

Consider fermenting regular feed to increase vitamin content and digestibility. This process enhances nutrient absorption and promotes healthier digestive systems, resulting in fewer droppings and cleaner coops.

Conclusion: Creating a Customized Feeding Plan for Your Flock

Choosing the right feed is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your chicken’s health and productivity. By understanding the specific nutritional needs of your flock at different life stages you can create a customized feeding plan that promotes optimal growth egg quality and overall vitality.

Remember that the perfect feeding regimen often combines several of these feed types adjusting with the seasons and your birds’ changing needs. Whether you opt for organic formulations fermented feeds or medicated options for vulnerable chicks the key is consistency and quality.

Your chickens’ vibrant feathers active behavior and nutritious eggs will be the ultimate testament to your thoughtful feed selection. With these seven feed options in your knowledge arsenal you’re well-equipped to raise a thriving healthy flock for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of feed is best for egg-laying chickens?

Complete layer feed with 16-18% protein and 3-4% calcium is ideal for egg-laying chickens. This balanced feed supports optimal egg production, strong shells, and vibrant yolks. Top brands include Purina Layena, Manna Pro Layer Feed, and Small Pet Select. Choose either pellets or mash based on your flock’s preference.

When should I transition from starter to grower feed for chicks?

Transition from starter to grower feed around 6 weeks of age. Make the change gradually over 7-10 days by mixing both feeds to prevent digestive upset. Chicks need 18-20% protein in their first 8 weeks, while growing pullets benefit from 16-18% protein. Never feed layer formulations to birds under 18 weeks as excess calcium can harm their developing systems.

What are the benefits of organic chicken feed?

Organic chicken feed is free from synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, and artificial additives, promoting better gut health and overall wellbeing. It typically contains higher-quality protein sources and natural ingredients tailored to different life stages. Look for USDA Organic certification when selecting organic feed from brands like Scratch and Peck Feeds, Modesto Milling, or Horizon Organic.

How do I make fermented chicken feed?

To make fermented feed, combine regular chicken feed with water in a 1:2 ratio in a non-metallic container. Cover loosely and let it ferment for 3-5 days, stirring daily. The mixture is ready when it smells pleasantly sour with tiny bubbles. This process enhances nutrient absorption, improves digestibility, and provides beneficial probiotics for chicken gut health.

Should I feed my chickens whole grains or “scratch mix”?

Whole grains or “scratch mix” should not be the sole diet for chickens as they’re low in protein and essential nutrients. However, they’re excellent supplements that encourage natural foraging behaviors and provide mental stimulation. Use the “mash and grain” method by offering scratch mix as a treat (10-20% of diet) alongside a complete feed to ensure balanced nutrition.

Is mash feed better than pellets for chickens?

Mash feed isn’t necessarily better than pellets, but it offers specific benefits for young chicks and elderly birds due to its softer texture. It’s easier to digest, supports hydration when mixed with water, and allows birds to select preferred ingredients. Pellets reduce waste and prevent selective eating. Many chicken keepers use a combination of both to maximize benefits.

When should I use medicated chicken feed?

Use medicated feed primarily for chicks (0-8 weeks) to protect against common diseases like coccidiosis while their immune systems develop. It’s particularly important for larger flocks, birds raised on previously used ground, or when there’s a history of disease. Always follow label instructions and discontinue medicated feed according to withdrawal periods before consuming eggs or meat.

How should I adjust chicken feed during different seasons?

In winter, increase carbohydrates (corn and scratch grains) to help chickens maintain body heat. During summer, boost protein levels to compensate for reduced feeding during heat stress and provide extra hydration. For spring and fall, maintain a balanced diet with consistent layer feed. Regardless of season, always ensure access to fresh water and appropriate supplements.