Choosing the best chicken feed is essential for healthy hens and strong eggs. The right feed supports egg production and hen wellness.
Laying hens need balanced nutrition with protein, vitamins, and minerals. High-quality feeds like New Country Organics and Purina Layena provide essential nutrients. Some feeds offer probiotics to aid digestion and improve hen health. Calcium supplements, such as Pecking Order Oyster Shell, help hens build strong eggshells.
Organic and non-GMO options suit those who prefer natural ingredients. Protein levels between 16% and 17% support consistent egg laying. Feeds without corn or soy reduce allergy risks and improve hen comfort. Selecting the proper feed keeps hens healthy and boosts egg quality. This guide covers top chicken feeds to help your hens lay their best eggs.
New Country Organics Corn-free Classic Layer Chicken Feed
Ideal for poultry enthusiasts and small-scale farmers looking for a high-quality, natural feed for their laying hens, the New Country Organics Corn-Free Classic Layer Chicken Feed is perfect for those seeking a corn-free and soy-free option that supports optimal hen health and egg production. This product is especially suitable for individuals prioritizing organic and non-GMO ingredients in their chickens’ diet.
Pros:
- Certified Organic and Non-GMO ensuring safe and natural nutrition
- Corn-free and soy-free formula ideal for hens with dietary sensitivities
- High protein content at 17% supports strong egg production
- Comes in a convenient 25lbs bag for easy storage and feeding
- Produced by a trusted brand, New Country Organics
Cons:
- May be pricier compared to conventional feeds due to organic certification
- Availability might be limited in some regions
The New Country Organics Corn-Free Classic Layer Chicken Feed boasts a thoughtfully crafted formula that excludes both corn and soy, common allergens that can cause digestive issues in hens. By eliminating these ingredients, this feed promotes better gut health and reduces the risk of food sensitivities, ensuring that your laying hens remain healthy and productive.
With a substantial 17% protein content, this feed provides the essential nutrients required for consistent and high-quality egg laying. The organic and non-GMO certification guarantees that your flock is nourished with pure, chemical-free ingredients, which not only benefits the chickens but also results in healthier eggs for your family or customers.
Purina Layena+
The Purina Layena+ | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed with Omega 3 Formula is ideal for poultry owners who want to provide their hens with a balanced diet that supports optimal egg production and overall health. This feed is perfect for backyard chicken keepers, small-scale farmers, and anyone focused on enhancing the nutritional quality of their eggs through fortified feed.
Pros:
- Contains a nutritionally complete formula tailored specifically for laying hens
- Enriched with Omega 3 fatty acids to promote healthier eggs and hens
- Comes in a convenient 10-pound bag, suitable for regular feeding schedules
- Produced by the trusted brand Purina, ensuring quality and consistency
- Compact dimensions (5 x 18 x 21 inches) make storage easy
Cons:
- May be priced higher than generic layer feeds due to premium ingredients
- Limited bag size might require frequent purchases for larger flocks
- Specific to laying hens, so not suitable for chicks or other poultry types
The Purina Layena+ Layer Hen Feed delivers a scientifically formulated diet that supports the nutritional needs of hens during their egg-laying cycle. Its inclusion of Omega 3 fatty acids is particularly beneficial as it helps produce eggs with higher omega-3 content, which is advantageous for consumers seeking healthier food options. The feed’s balanced composition ensures hens receive essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that promote stronger shells and consistent laying performance.
Additionally, the 10-pound bag packaging offers a manageable quantity that maintains freshness and quality of the feed. The trusted Purina brand guarantees that the product meets stringent manufacturing standards. For poultry keepers aiming to enhance their flock’s health and egg quality, this feed represents a reliable and efficient choice. Its specialized formula caters exclusively to layer hens, maximizing nutritional benefits and overall productivity.
Manna Pro Chicken Feed
The Manna Pro Chicken Feed, 16% Protein Layer Crumbles with Probiotics is ideal for backyard poultry keepers and small-scale farmers who want to ensure their laying hens receive a complete and balanced diet. If you are looking to support consistent egg production and improve your flock’s overall health, this nutrient-rich feed is an excellent choice. It suits those focused on providing high-quality nutrition with added digestive health benefits for their hens.
Pros:
- Contains 16% protein to support strong egg production and healthy hens.
- Includes probiotics that promote digestive health and nutrient absorption.
- Formulated as a complete feed ensuring hens get all necessary vitamins and minerals.
- Made in the USA with quality standards.
- Convenient 8 lb bag size, easy to store and handle.
Cons:
- May be slightly more expensive than generic chicken feeds.
- The bag size might be small for larger flocks requiring frequent refills.
The Manna Pro Chicken Feed is designed with a balanced 16% protein content, essential for sustaining the energy levels and egg-laying capacity of hens. The inclusion of probiotics helps maintain a healthy gut flora, which improves digestion and nutrient uptake. This means your hens can convert their feed into energy and nutrients more efficiently, leading to better overall health and productivity.
Additionally, this feed is a complete layer crumble, which means it contains all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. This comprehensive nutrition supports eggshell quality, feather growth, and immune function. The crumble form is easy for hens to eat, reducing waste and ensuring they consume the right amount of nutrients daily.
Pecking Order Oyster Shell
The Pecking Order Oyster Shell – Calcium Supplement is ideal for poultry owners who want to ensure their laying hens produce strong and healthy egg shells. This product is perfect for backyard chicken keepers, small farms, and anyone looking to improve the calcium intake of their hens to support optimal egg development.
Pros:
- Provides a natural and rich source of calcium essential for strong egg shells
- Comes in a convenient 5-pound package ideal for regular use
- Manufactured by Red River Commodities, ensuring quality and reliability
- Easy to store with compact dimensions: 3.5″ height, 7.5″ width, and 12.5″ length
Cons:
- May require additional supplements if hens have other dietary deficiencies
- Not suitable for non-laying poultry or other types of animals
The Pecking Order Oyster Shell supplement is specially formulated to provide an optimal dose of calcium that supports the natural laying process of hens. Its high-quality oyster shell composition ensures that the calcium is readily absorbed, helping to maintain the health and strength of eggshells. This reduces the risk of cracked or weak shells, which can impact the quality of eggs and the health of the hens themselves.
Additionally, the product’s manageable size and weight make it convenient for daily use and storage. By incorporating this supplement into your hens’ diet, you promote consistent egg production and enhance overall flock health. Whether you are a casual chicken keeper or managing a small-scale poultry operation, the Pecking Order Oyster Shell offers a reliable and natural way to boost calcium intake for your laying hens.
Purina Layena Pellets
The Purina Layena Pellets are ideal for poultry farmers and backyard chicken keepers who want to provide their laying hens with a balanced, nutritious diet. This 25 lbs chicken feed is perfect for those seeking to enhance egg production, promote hen health, and maintain consistent quality in their flock’s diet. Whether you are a small-scale hobbyist or a larger poultry operation, this feed supports optimal laying performance.
Pros:
- Formulated specifically for laying hens to boost egg production and shell quality
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals to support hen health
- Convenient 25 lbs bag size for easy storage and handling
- Produced by trusted manufacturer Land O’Lakes, Inc.
- Pellet form reduces feed waste and encourages consumption
Cons:
- May not be suitable for chickens not in laying phase
- Bulk packaging might be heavy for some users to carry
- Specific to laying hens, so less versatile for other poultry types
The Purina Layena Pellets come in a sturdy bag measuring 23 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 4 inches in height, weighing a total of 25 pounds. This size strikes a balance between sufficient quantity and manageable packaging. The pellet format ensures that hens can easily consume the feed without excessive wastage, which supports efficient feeding practices. The formulation is enriched with vital nutrients that directly contribute to healthier hens and stronger eggshells, making it a reliable choice for maintaining flock productivity.
Manufactured by Land O’Lakes, Inc. under the Waggin’ Train brand, this feed is designed with quality and performance in mind. Regular feeding with Purina Layena Pellets can lead to improved egg quantity and quality, while also supporting the overall well-being of your hens. This product is a great investment for anyone looking to sustain or improve their laying flock’s output in a practical and effective way.
Manna Pro 7-grain Ultimate Chicken Scratch
The Manna Pro 7-Grain Ultimate Chicken Scratch is perfect for backyard poultry enthusiasts and small-scale farmers looking for a natural, non-GMO grain blend to supplement their chickens’ diet. Ideal for those who want to provide a nutritious and tasty treat that supports healthy foraging behavior and overall flock wellness. This product suits anyone aiming to maintain a happy and productive group of hens, chickens, and other birds with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Made from a natural multigrain blend that promotes healthy digestion and energy.
- Non-GMO ingredients ensuring a safe and wholesome treat for poultry.
- Supports natural foraging instincts which keep birds active and engaged.
- Available in a convenient 10 lb bag providing long-lasting supply.
- Suitable for a variety of birds including chickens, hens, and other backyard fowl.
Cons:
- Not a complete feed; should be used as a supplement alongside regular poultry feed.
- Some birds may take time to adjust if they are not accustomed to scratch grains.
- Requires proper storage to maintain freshness and avoid pest contamination.
The Manna Pro 7-Grain Ultimate Chicken Scratch stands out due to its carefully selected blend of seven different grains, offering a well-rounded nutritional profile for poultry. This blend encourages natural scratching behavior, which is crucial for the birds’ mental stimulation and physical exercise. The inclusion of non-GMO grains ensures that you are feeding your flock a high-quality, safe product free from genetically modified ingredients, aligning with organic and sustainable farming practices.
Furthermore, the product’s 10-pound bag is designed to provide a sufficient quantity for small to medium-sized backyard flocks, making it a practical choice for regular use. Its original version color and texture appeal to birds, encouraging consistent consumption. By integrating this scratch grain treat into your poultry’s diet, you can enhance their overall health, boost egg production, and keep your flock active and content throughout the day.
Purina Layena
The Purina Layena Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed Crumbles is ideal for backyard poultry keepers and small-scale farmers who want to provide their hens with a balanced diet that supports egg production and overall health. If you are looking for a reliable, convenient, and high-quality feed to keep your laying hens healthy and productive, this 25-pound bag is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Formulated to be nutritionally complete for laying hens
- Supports strong eggshells and consistent egg production
- Comes in easy-to-feed crumble form that reduces waste
- Trusted Purina brand known for quality poultry feed
- Generous 25-pound bag size provides long-lasting supply
Cons:
- May be more expensive than generic or bulk feed options
- Only suitable for layer hens, not for chicks or meat birds
- Requires proper storage to maintain freshness and prevent pests
The Purina Layena Layer Hen Feed Crumbles are designed to meet the specific dietary needs of laying hens. The feed includes essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that help hens maintain their health and produce eggs with strong shells. The crumble form is particularly beneficial as it is easier for hens to consume and reduces feed waste, ensuring they get the most out of their diet. This feed’s carefully balanced formula also supports the hen’s immune system and overall vitality.
With dimensions of 5 inches in height, 16 inches in width, and 26 inches in length, the 25-pound bag is compact yet substantial enough to last for several weeks depending on flock size. Manufactured by the reputable Purina brand, this feed guarantees consistent quality and nutritional value. For poultry keepers who prioritize the health and productivity of their layer hens, the Purina Layena Layer Hen Feed Crumbles offers a convenient and effective solution.
Manna Pro All Flock With Probiotics Crumble
The Manna Pro All Flock with Probiotics Crumble is an excellent choice for poultry owners seeking a well-rounded, nutritious feed for their birds. Ideal for those who want to support the overall health and productivity of their flock, this product is particularly suited for backyard chicken keepers, small farmers, and anyone looking to provide a balanced diet enriched with essential vitamins and minerals.
Pros:
- Contains added probiotics to promote healthy digestion
- Formulated with essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
- Easy-to-feed crumble texture suitable for birds of all ages
- Comes in a convenient 8-pound packaging for manageable storage
- Produced by trusted brand Manna Pro known for quality pet products
Cons:
- Packaging size may be too small for very large flocks
- Specific formula may not cater to specialized dietary needs of some poultry breeds
The Manna Pro All Flock with Probiotics Crumble stands out due to its carefully crafted formula that combines probiotics with essential nutrients. The inclusion of probiotics supports a healthy gut flora, which is vital for nutrient absorption and overall immune system strength. This feature helps poultry maintain optimal health and reduces the risk of digestive issues, ultimately leading to improved egg production and growth rates.
Additionally, the product’s crumble texture makes it easy for birds of all sizes and ages to consume, ensuring minimal feed waste. The blend of vitamins and minerals supports various physiological functions, from bone development to feather quality. With its well-balanced ingredients and reliable brand backing, this feed offers an effective solution for maintaining a healthy, thriving flock.
Wholesome Harvest Whole Grain Layer Blend 16% Chicken Feed
The Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Soy and Corn Free Whole Grain Layer Blend 16% is ideal for poultry owners who prioritize natural, nutritious feed for their laying hens and ducks. This product is perfect for those looking to avoid genetically modified ingredients and who want to provide their birds with a balanced diet enriched with essential oils, herbs, and vital minerals for optimal health and egg production.
Pros:
- Non-GMO and soy and corn free formula, reducing allergens and promoting natural nutrition.
- Contains essential oils, herbs, oyster shells, vital minerals, and Omega 3 for enhanced bird health and improved egg quality.
- Supports strong shell formation and overall well-being of laying hens and ducks.
- Comes in a convenient 10 lb bag with manageable dimensions (15″ x 4.5″ x 9″).
- Produced by Ernst Grain & Livestock, a trusted manufacturer, under the Wholesome Harvest brand.
Cons:
- May be priced higher than conventional poultry feeds due to premium ingredients.
- Limited bag size (10 lb) may require frequent purchasing for larger flocks.
The Wholesome Harvest Whole Grain Layer Blend is designed to offer a comprehensive and natural diet for your laying birds. By excluding common allergens like soy and corn, this feed reduces the risk of digestive issues and supports a healthier gut. The inclusion of essential oils and herbs helps boost immunity and supports overall vitality, ensuring your poultry remains active and productive.
Additionally, the blend is fortified with oyster shells and vital minerals, which are critical for maintaining strong eggshells and improving egg quality. The added Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to better nutritional value of the eggs, making them healthier for consumption. With its thoughtfully balanced ingredients, this feed supports sustainable and ethical poultry care for conscientious farmers and hobbyists alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Protein Level For Laying Hen Feed?
A protein level of around 16-17% is ideal for laying hens. It supports egg production and overall health effectively.
Why Choose Corn-free And Soy-free Chicken Feed?
Corn-free and soy-free feeds reduce allergy risks and improve digestion. They also benefit hens with sensitivities to these ingredients.
How Does Oyster Shell Supplement Help Laying Hens?
Oyster shell provides essential calcium for strong eggshells. It supports hens’ bone health and improves egg quality.
What Are The Benefits Of Probiotics In Chicken Feed?
Probiotics enhance hens’ digestive health, boost nutrient absorption, and support immune function. This leads to better egg production.
Are Organic And Non-gmo Feeds Better For Hens?
Organic and non-GMO feeds avoid harmful chemicals and GMOs. They promote natural growth and healthier eggs in laying hens.
Can Omega-3 Enriched Feed Improve Egg Quality?
Omega-3 enriched feed boosts the nutritional value of eggs. It enhances yolk color and supports hen health naturally.
Conclusion
Choosing the right chicken feed is crucial for healthy, productive hens. A variety of options exist to suit different needs. New Country Organics offers a corn-free, soy-free feed with 17% protein. It’s organic and non-GMO, appealing to those seeking natural options.
Purina Layena+ provides a complete feed with Omega 3, supporting overall hen health. Manna Pro’s 16% protein layer crumbles come with probiotics, aiding digestion and boosting egg production. Oyster shell supplements like Pecking Order can strengthen egg shells. Purina’s Layena Pellets and Crumbles offer nutritionally complete solutions for laying hens.
For those preferring treats, Manna Pro’s 7-Grain Scratch is a natural multigrain option. Wholesome Harvest provides a whole grain blend free from soy and corn, enriched with essential oils and herbs. Each product has unique benefits. Consider your hens’ specific needs.
Invest in quality feed. Ensure happier, healthier hens and more eggs on your table.