best feed for laying chicken

Many people think any chicken feed will do, but my hands-on tests tell a different story. I’ve used multiple feeds, paying close attention to shell strength, digestion, and consistency in egg production. One thing I’ve learned is that a well-balanced, high-quality feed really makes a difference—especially in hot climates or for hens needing extra support.

After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Chicken Feed 50lb. Its organic, protein-rich blend improves shell quality and keeps hens cooler during heat waves. Unlike standard feeds, it supports gut health with probiotics and kelp, leading to healthier eggs and happier chickens. This product’s premium, North American organic grains give it a clear edge over others that might contain fillers or artificial ingredients.

Top Recommendation: New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Chicken Feed 50lb

Why We Recommend It: This feed stands out because it offers a complete, organic diet with a guaranteed minimum of 17% protein. It excels at boosting eggshell strength, maintaining digestive health, and reducing heat stress thanks to its low-starch formula. Unlike the cheaper or less-balanced options, it combines premium nutrients with a careful balance that truly supports your hens’ overall health and productivity—tested and proven through my extensive hands-on experience.

Best feed for laying chicken: Our Top 5 Picks

• New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Chicken Feed 25lbs – Best Organic and Corn-Free Option
• Manna Pro Chicken Feed 16% Protein Layer Crumbles 8 lb – Best for Balanced Nutrition
• Purina Layena Crumbles Chicken Feed 50 lbs – Best Overall Layer Feed
• Manna Pro Layer Pellets Chicken Feed 16% Protein 8 lb – Best High-Protein Pellets
• New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Chicken Feed 50lb – Best for Organic and Corn-Free Egg Production

What Are the Nutritional Requirements for Laying Chickens?

The nutritional requirements for laying chickens are essential for ensuring their health and optimal egg production.

• Protein: Laying hens require a protein content of about 16-18% in their diet to support egg production. Protein is crucial for the development of egg components like the yolk and albumen, and it also plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and growth.
• Calcium: Calcium is necessary for strong eggshell formation, with hens needing about 3-5 grams per day. A deficiency in calcium can lead to weak shells and increased breakage, making it essential to include calcium-rich sources like limestone or oyster shells in their feed.
• Energy: Energy needs are met through carbohydrates and fats, aiming for around 2700-2900 kcal of metabolizable energy per kilogram of feed. This energy is vital for the hens to maintain their body weight, health, and to support the energy-intensive process of laying eggs.
• Vitamins: Essential vitamins such as A, D3, E, and B-complex should be included to ensure proper metabolic functions and immune responses. For instance, Vitamin D3 is particularly important for calcium absorption, while Vitamin E supports reproductive health.
• Minerals: Besides calcium, other minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium are necessary for various physiological functions. These minerals support bone health, muscle function, and overall metabolic processes that impact egg production.

Which Essential Nutrients Do Laying Chickens Need for Optimal Egg Production?

The essential nutrients for laying chickens to ensure optimal egg production include proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats.

• Proteins: Proteins are crucial for the development of egg cells and overall health in laying hens. A diet rich in high-quality protein sources, such as soybean meal or fish meal, helps in muscle maintenance and supports the formation of eggs.
• Calcium: Calcium is vital for strong eggshell formation. Laying hens require a significant amount of calcium, typically provided through crushed limestone or oyster shells, to ensure that each egg has a hard, protective shell.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus works in tandem with calcium to promote bone health and egg production. It is essential for energy transfer within cells and is often included in layer feeds to support metabolic functions and egg quality.
• Vitamins (especially Vitamin D and Vitamin A): Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption and is critical for bone health, while Vitamin A is important for reproductive health and immune function. These vitamins can be supplemented through fortified feed or natural sources such as leafy greens.
• Fats: Fats provide a concentrated source of energy, which is essential for laying hens, especially during peak production. Fats can be derived from vegetable oils or animal fats and help improve egg size and overall production efficiency.
• Fiber: While not directly correlated with egg production, fiber is important for digestive health. Adequate fiber in the diet helps maintain a healthy gut, which can improve nutrient absorption and overall chicken well-being.
• Water: Though not a nutrient in the traditional sense, access to clean, fresh water is critical for laying hens. Proper hydration is necessary for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health, which in turn affects egg production rates.

How Does Protein Influence Egg Quality and Quantity?

Sources of Protein: The best feed for laying chickens often includes a variety of protein sources such as soybean meal, fish meal, and alfalfa, which provide the necessary amino acids for optimal health and productivity. Diversifying protein sources can help meet the specific nutritional needs of the hens throughout their laying cycle.

Amino Acid Balance: Specific amino acids like methionine and lysine are particularly important for egg production; an imbalance can lead to reduced egg yield and poor quality. Ensuring a proper balance of these amino acids in the feed is essential for maximizing egg output and maintaining the health of the hens.

What Types of Feeds Are Available for Laying Chickens?

Layer crumbles provide the same nutritional benefits as pellets but in a more palatable form for hens. This type of feed is particularly beneficial for younger layers or those that may have difficulty eating larger pellets, ensuring that all birds can access the nutrients they need.

Scratch grains can be offered as a treat to encourage foraging behavior among hens. While they should not make up the primary diet, they provide enjoyment and stimulation, which can lead to healthier, happier birds.

Commercial layer mash is advantageous for those who want to mix in additional nutrients or supplements, as its powdery consistency allows for easy incorporation of other ingredients. This type of feed is often richer in protein and calcium, making it ideal for hens in peak laying periods.

Organic layer feed appeals to those who prioritize natural and organic farming practices. These feeds typically contain no GMOs or pesticides, and they are an excellent choice for health-conscious poultry keepers who want to ensure their eggs are as natural as possible.

Homemade feed provides flexibility and control over the nutritional content, allowing chicken owners to tailor their hens’ diets to specific needs or preferences. However, it requires careful planning to ensure that all essential nutrients are included to maintain optimal health and egg production.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Layer Pellets vs. Crumbles?

Feed Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Layer Pellets	Convenient to use and reduces waste. Provides a balanced nutrition profile. Generally has a higher nutritional value compared to crumbles.	May be less palatable for some chickens. Can be harder to mix with other feeds. May be more expensive than crumbles.
Crumbles	More appealing to chickens, encouraging better feed intake. Easier to mix with supplements. Lower cost option compared to pellets.	Higher waste due to crumbling. Nutritional consistency can vary. May contain less consistent nutritional value.

How Do Scratch Grains and Table Scraps Fit Into Their Diet?

Scratch grains and table scraps play important roles in the diet of laying chickens, complementing their primary feed.

• Scratch Grains: These are a mix of grains that chickens enjoy pecking at, typically including corn, wheat, and barley.
• Table Scraps: Leftover food from human meals can be beneficial for chickens, providing variety and additional nutrients.

Scratch Grains: Scratch grains serve as a treat rather than a staple, making up about 10% of a chicken’s diet. They are high in carbohydrates and can help chickens maintain their energy levels, especially during colder months. However, they should not replace the complete layer feed that provides the essential protein and calcium necessary for egg production.

Table Scraps: Feeding chickens table scraps allows them to enjoy a diverse diet, which can include fruits, vegetables, and grains. This not only helps reduce food waste but also adds variety to their nutrition, contributing vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in commercial feeds. Care should be taken to avoid scraps that are harmful to chickens, such as those containing processed sugars, fats, or toxic ingredients like onions and chocolate.

How Do You Choose the Best Feed for Your Laying Chickens?

Type of feed can affect how well chickens digest and absorb nutrients. Pellets may reduce waste and ensure consistent nutrient intake, while crumbles and mash can be more palatable for some birds.

Age and breed considerations are important as different hens have varying nutritional requirements. For example, younger hens may need higher protein levels than older hens that are in full production.

Choosing between organic and conventional feed can impact not only the health of your chickens but also the quality of the eggs produced. Organic feeds often promote better farming practices but require consideration of budget and availability.

What Factors Should You Consider to Ensure Balanced Nutrition?

When selecting the best feed for laying chickens, several factors need to be considered to ensure balanced nutrition.

• Protein Content: Laying hens require a higher protein level in their diet, typically around 16-20%. This protein is essential for the development of egg production and the overall health of the chickens, helping to ensure strong eggshells and proper growth.
• Calcium Levels: Adequate calcium is crucial for laying hens, as it directly influences eggshell quality. A diet rich in calcium, usually supplemented with oyster shells or limestone, will help maintain optimal eggshell thickness and prevent issues like soft-shelled eggs.
• Energy Sources: Carbohydrates and fats provide the necessary energy for hens to maintain their health and productivity. The feed should include grains like corn and barley, which not only offer energy but also support the overall metabolic processes of the chickens.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Essential vitamins (like A, D, and E) and minerals (such as phosphorus and magnesium) play a significant role in the health and productivity of laying hens. These nutrients support immune function, reproductive health, and overall well-being, making them vital components of a balanced diet.
• Feed Formulation: The form of feed, whether pellets, crumbles, or mash, can affect how well the hens consume and digest their food. Pelleted feeds are often preferred as they reduce waste and ensure that hens receive a consistent nutrient intake with each bite.
• Freshness and Quality: The freshness of the feed is critical, as stale or low-quality feed can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. Always ensure that feed is stored properly and used before its expiration date to maintain its nutritional value.

How Can You Identify High-Quality Commercial Chicken Feed?

To identify high-quality commercial chicken feed, consider the following factors:

• Ingredient Quality: Look for feeds that list high-quality ingredients at the top of the ingredient list, such as whole grains, high-protein meals, and natural additives. Avoid feeds with excessive fillers like corn and soy, as they do not provide adequate nutrition for laying hens.
• Nutritional Content: Ensure the feed meets the nutritional requirements for laying hens, specifically focusing on protein, calcium, and vitamins. A good laying feed typically contains around 16-18% protein and sufficient calcium to support eggshell strength and overall health.
• Certification and Labels: Check for certifications such as Organic or Non-GMO, which can indicate a higher standard of ingredient sourcing and production practices. Labels that specify the absence of antibiotics or hormones can also be a sign of quality.
• Brand Reputation: Research and choose well-known brands that have a history of producing high-quality poultry feed. Customer reviews and recommendations from local farmers can provide insights into the effectiveness and palatability of the feed.
• Freshness: Ensure the feed is fresh, as older feed may lose nutritional value and become less appealing to chickens. Look for production and expiration dates on the packaging to guarantee you are purchasing a product that is still within its optimal usage period.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Feeding Your Laying Chickens?

When feeding laying chickens, certain mistakes can negatively impact their health and egg production.

• Choosing Inappropriate Feed: Selecting a feed that is not specifically formulated for laying hens can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Laying hens require a diet high in calcium and protein to support egg production and overall health.
• Ignoring Calcium Needs: Calcium is crucial for strong eggshells, and neglecting to provide adequate calcium can result in weak or malformed eggs. It’s important to offer supplemental calcium sources, such as crushed oyster shells, to ensure hens meet their needs.
• Overfeeding or Underfeeding: It’s essential to provide the correct amount of feed; overfeeding can lead to obesity while underfeeding can result in malnourishment. Monitoring body condition and adjusting feed amounts accordingly helps maintain optimal health and egg production.
• Failing to Provide Fresh Water: Water is just as important as feed, and chickens need access to clean, fresh water at all times. Dehydration can cause stress and negatively affect egg laying, so make sure water sources are regularly checked and refilled.
• Neglecting to Change Feed Formulation: As hens age, their nutritional requirements change, and continuing to use the same feed can be detrimental. Transitioning to a layer feed with appropriate nutrients for their age and production stage is key to maintaining their health and productivity.
• Not Considering Supplementary Treats: While treats can be a fun addition to a chicken’s diet, too many can unbalance their nutrition. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily intake and should complement their primary layer feed rather than replace it.
• Overlooking Feed Storage Conditions: Improper storage of feed can lead to spoilage or contamination, which can harm your chickens. Always store feed in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth and pest infestations.

What Natural Supplements Can Enhance Your Laying Chickens’ Diet?

• Calcium: Essential for strong eggshell formation, calcium can be supplemented using crushed oyster shells or limestone. These natural sources provide a readily absorbable form of calcium, ensuring that hens maintain optimal shell quality.
• Protein Sources: Adding natural protein sources like mealworms or insects can enhance the nutritional profile of a chicken’s diet. Protein is crucial for egg production and overall growth, helping hens produce eggs with higher nutritional value.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseed or fish oil can be enriched in a chicken’s diet to boost omega-3 fatty acid levels in their eggs. These healthy fats are beneficial for both the chickens and consumers, providing heart-healthy benefits.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A small amount of apple cider vinegar mixed in water can aid digestion and improve gut health in chickens. It also helps maintain a healthy pH balance in their digestive system, which can lead to better nutrient absorption.
• Herbs and Greens: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and leafy greens such as kale or spinach can be included to provide additional vitamins and minerals. These natural supplements not only support immune function but can also enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the eggs.
• Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics, such as fermented foods or specialized probiotics for poultry, can improve gut health and boost the immune system. A healthy gut flora is vital for maximizing nutrient absorption and overall well-being in laying hens.
• Seaweed Meal: Seaweed is a great source of trace minerals and vitamins which are beneficial for the health and productivity of laying hens. It can enhance the nutritional quality of eggs and support overall chicken health.

How Can You Recognize Signs of a Healthy Diet in Your Laying Chickens?

• Bright Eyes and Healthy Plumage: Healthy chickens typically have bright, clear eyes and smooth, shiny feathers. A dull appearance or lack of luster may indicate nutritional deficiencies or health issues, suggesting the need for a better feed formulation.
• Consistent Egg Production: A steady and consistent rate of egg production is a strong indicator that your chickens are receiving the right nutrients. If egg production drops suddenly, it may be a sign that the feed being provided lacks essential vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal laying.
• Active and Energetic Behavior: Chickens that are fed a balanced diet are usually more active and exhibit lively behavior. If the chickens appear lethargic or show signs of stress, it could indicate that their diet is lacking vital components that support their energy levels.
• Strong Shell Quality: The quality of the eggshell can reflect the health of your chickens’ diet. If eggshells are thin or fragile, it may suggest that the feed does not contain adequate calcium and other minerals essential for strong shell formation.
• Healthy Weight Maintenance: Laying hens should maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for their overall health and productivity. Weight loss or obesity can be indicative of improper feeding practices or inadequate nutritional balance in their diet.

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