Imagine waking up to a basket overflowing with warm, fresh eggs every morning. It’s a dream for many backyard chicken keepers, but sometimes, those dreams feel a bit out of reach. Ever wonder why some hens lay consistently, while others seem to take a break for what feels like forever? The answer often lies in what’s in their food bowl!
Choosing the right feed for your egg-laying chickens can feel like navigating a maze. You want the best for your flock, but with so many bags and brands promising “peak performance,” it’s easy to get confused. Are you worried about your hens not laying enough, or perhaps about their overall health? You’re not alone. The wrong feed can lead to fewer eggs, weaker shells, and even unhappy chickens.
But don’t worry! This post is here to clear things up. We’ll break down exactly what your laying hens need in their diet. By the end, you’ll understand the key ingredients and be confident in picking the perfect feed to keep your girls healthy and laying those delicious eggs. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a happy, egg-producing flock!
Top Feed For Chickens To Lay Eggs Recommendations
No. 1
Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker, Chicken Feed Supplement for Laying Hens, Poultry Food with Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Digestion Support with Fortified Vitamins & Minerals, 5 lbs
- SUPPLEMENT FOR LAYING HENS: Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker is a specially crafted supplement designed to support the nutritional needs of laying hens. It helps promote overall health, productivity, ensuring your hens produce fresh, high-quality eggs.
- RICH IN OMEGA FATTY ACIDS: This supplement provides a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining hen health and supporting the production of nutrient-dense eggs with improved yolk quality and vibrant color.
- SUPPORTS DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Formulated with direct-fed microbials to aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance gut health—promoting better feed conversion, stronger immunity, and overall performance in hens for a thriving, productive flock.
- ENHANCES EGG YOLK COLOR: This omega-3 supplement helps your hens lay nutrient-rich eggs with vivid, golden yolks. Fortified with flaxseed and marigold extract, it naturally supports yolk pigmentation, egg quality, and overall hen health.
- FORTIFIED FOR HEALTHY EGGS: Packed with Omega-3s, calcium, and vital nutrients to support shell strength, consistent laying, & rich egg quality. Helps hens stay active, vibrant, and productive throughout the laying cycle for optimal backyard flock health.
No. 2
Manna Pro Chicken Feed, 16% Protein Layer Crumbles with Probiotics for Digestive Health, Complete Feed for Laying Hens to Support Egg Production, Nutrient-Rich Chicken Food, Made in USA, 8 lb Bag
- COMPLETE CHICKEN FEED FOR LAYING HENS: Manna Pro Chicken Feed delivers complete nutrition designed for laying hens, supporting strong egg production, healthy feathers, and overall wellness; balanced formula helps maintain optimal health in backyard flocks
- HIGH-QUALITY PROTEIN FOR STRONG EGGSHELLS: Made with 16% protein to promote strong eggshell formation & healthy, consistent egg laying; supports muscle development & overall vitality in laying hens, ensuring they stay active & productive year-round
- CRUMBLE FORM FOR EASY DIGESTION & FEEDING: Convenient crumbles encourage easy pecking and reduce waste; designed for optimal digestibility so hens can absorb key nutrients effectively, promoting healthier digestion and steady, reliable egg production
- VITAMINS & ESSENTIAL MINERALS: Enriched with vital vitamins and minerals, including calcium, to support strong bones & eggshells; supports immune health & energy levels, giving your chickens the complete nutrition they need for maximum laying performance
- TRUSTED QUALITY FROM MANNA PRO: Crafted by Manna Pro, a leader in poultry nutrition long trusted by backyard chicken keepers; made with quality ingredients & no added antibiotics, so you can confidently support your flock’s health & egg-laying potential
No. 3
Purina Layena | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed Crumbles - Chicken Feed | 25 Pound (25 lb) Bag
- Rich yellow yolks - A high level of xanthophyll, a coloring agent derived from marigolds, produces deep yellow egg yolks
- Calcium Manganese and Trace Minerals - For strong shells
- Essential Amino Acids - Enhanced with lysine and methionine to give birds the nutrients they need to produce plenty of wholesome and delicious eggs; Also promotes beautiful feathering
- Key Levels of Vitamin A, D, E - Strong reproduction and overall health, with a high level of Vitamin A to help birds grow into healthy adult birds
- Prebiotics, Probiotics and Yeast - Supports immune and digestive health
No. 4
Purina, Layena Pellets, Chicken Feed for Laying Hens, 50 lbs
- Purina
- Added Marigold Extract
- Balanced and Complete Formula
- Calcium Maganese and Trace Minerals
- Essential Amino Acids
No. 5
New Country Organics | Corn-Free Classic Layer Chicken Feed for Laying Hens | Corn-Free and Soy-Free | 17% Protein | Certified Organic and Non-GMO Chicken Food | 25lbs Bag
- ALWAYS PREMIUM NUTRITION: Our corn-free and soy-free chicken food 25lb (chicken feed 25 lb bag) is a complete diet for laying hens, boasting a guaranteed minimum of 17% protein. Your feathered friends will thrive on this super premium blend, producing top-quality organic whole chickens.
- BEAT THE HEAT: Our high protein low-starch formula keeps your birds cooler in hot climates. Say goodbye to overheated hens as they enjoy this carefully balanced chicken food for laying hens.
- STRONG SHELLS, HEALTHY DIGESTION: Support eggshell strength and digestive health with our layer feed. Enriched with probiotics and kelp, it promotes robust, nutrient-packed eggs and ensures your hens stay in prime condition.
- COMPREHENSIVE DIET SOLUTIONS: Enhance your flock's diet with New Country Organics' chicken grit for hens, chicken dance grubs, and chicken oyster shell. Visit our Amazon storefront for all your organic chicken feed needs!
- ORGANIC EGGCELLENCE: Crafted with North American certified organic grains, our corn free classic layer chicken feed 25 lb bag is a testament to our commitment to quality. No genetically modified organisms here – just pure, organic goodness. New Country Organics’ wheat-free chicken layer feed, chick feed, chick starter feed and cracked corn are also available for hens at different stages.
No. 6
MAQIHAN 15oz Chicken Nesting Herbs - Dried Herbs for Laying Hens to Support Egg Production,Feather Quality,Daily Wellness,Natural Chicken Treats & Poultry Feed Botanical Mix for Coop
- Eat Anywhere To Supplement Nutrition: You can pour chicken nesting herbs in the chicken house; litter; nest box; feeder; dust bath area, and the chickens can eat it anytime and anywhere. Nesting herbs for chicken coop can be mixed with other chicken feeds to make a perfect snack supplement, supplementing chickens with multiple vitamins; minerals; calcium and trace elements, etc., which is beneficial to the health of chickens and improves the quality of eggs
- Natural Chicken Nesting Herbs: 10 kinds of mixed natural nesting herbs for chicken coop, including basil, dandelion, calendula, chamomile, oregano, lavender, rosemary and crushed oyster shells, etc., a carefully selected combination of raw materials, rich in nutrition, chickens love this chicken food supplement, simple to supplement the nutrients they need
- Universally Applicable: Whether it is a family farm or a chicken supplier, raising chickens and ducks, our nesting box herbs for chickens supplement is often used to improve the living conditions of chickens and simply supplement a variety of nutrients
- Safe For Coops:You will receive 15oz of chicken herbs.Nesting box herbs for chickens is perfect feed supplement for hens
- Make Chicken Coop Comfortable And Natural: The natural hay aroma of nesting box herbs for chickens creates a comfortable and peaceful living environment for the hens. Adding some chicken coop herbs on the chicken coop mat will make the hens prefer to lay eggs on the chicken coop mat
No. 7
Purina, Layena Crumbles, Chicken Feed for Laying Hens, 50 lbs
- Purina
- Added Marigold Extract
- Balanced and Complete Formula
- Calcium, Maganese and Trace Minerals
- Essential Amino Acids
No. 8
Layer Pellet Chicken Feed, 16% Protein Poultry Feed for Laying Hens, Supports Egg Production, Strong Eggshells & Calcium Absorption with Vitamin D3, Made in USA, 40 lbs
- Boosts Egg Production & Stronger Eggshells: 16% protein layer pellets formulated to support consistent egg laying, improved yolk quality, and stronger shells for reliable daily production
- Enhanced Calcium Absorption With Vitamin D3: Fortified with Vitamin D3 to help hens absorb calcium more effectively, reducing weak or cracked eggs and improving overall shell durability
- Complete Chicken Feed for Laying Hens: Balanced poultry food with essential vitamins and minerals to support healthy, active backyard chickens and long-term flock performance
- Pellet Form Reduces Waste & Improves Intake: Uniform pellets minimize feed loss while encouraging natural pecking behavior and consistent nutrient consumption for live birds
- Made in USA With Trusted Quality Ingredients: Manufactured in the USA for consistent safety, quality, and reliability, giving you confidence in every 40 lb bag you feed your coop
Feed Your Flock for Fabulous Eggs: The Ultimate Chicken Feed Buying Guide
Choosing the right feed for your chickens is super important. It helps them stay healthy and lay those delicious eggs you love. This guide will help you pick the best feed for your feathered friends.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for chicken feed, keep an eye out for these important things:
Protein Power
- Lay Pellets/Crumbles: These feeds usually have about 16-18% protein. This is perfect for adult hens that are laying eggs.
- Starter/Grower Feed: Younger chicks need more protein, around 18-24%. This helps them grow strong.
Nutrient Balance
- Vitamins and Minerals: Good feed has all the vitamins and minerals your chickens need. Calcium is especially important for strong eggshells.
- Balanced Diet: The feed should offer a complete meal. It shouldn’t just be one ingredient.
Form of Feed
- Crumbles: These are small, broken-up pieces of feed. They are easy for chickens of all ages to eat.
- Pellets: These are small, bite-sized cylinders. Some chickens prefer them.
- Mash: This is a finely ground feed. It’s good for very young chicks but can be messy.
Important Materials in Chicken Feed
The ingredients in chicken feed really matter. Here’s what to look for:
Grains are the Base
- Corn: Chickens love corn! It gives them energy.
- Soybean Meal: This is a great source of protein.
- Wheat and Barley: These grains add more nutrients and fiber.
Protein Boosters
- Alfalfa Meal: This adds extra protein and vitamins.
- Fish Meal: Another good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamins and Minerals for Health
- Calcium Carbonate (Oyster Shell): Essential for strong eggshells.
- Dicalcium Phosphate: Provides calcium and phosphorus.
- Vitamin Premixes: These add all the necessary vitamins like A, D, and E.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all chicken feed is made the same. Here’s what makes a difference:
What Makes Feed Better
- Fresh Ingredients: Look for feed that is not old. Fresh ingredients mean more nutrients.
- Reputable Brands: Brands that focus on animal nutrition usually make better feed.
- Added Goodies: Some feeds have extra things like probiotics to help digestion or herbs for health.
What Makes Feed Worse
- Lots of Fillers: Feed with too much corn or cheap grains might not have enough protein or nutrients.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: Chickens don’t need these. They can sometimes cause health issues.
- Old or Stale Feed: This loses its nutritional value and can even make chickens sick.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the feed and what your chickens think of it are important.
Feeding Your Hens
- Adult Laying Hens: Use a layer feed with 16-18% protein. Offer it in a feeder that keeps it clean and dry.
- Chicks (0-8 weeks): Use a starter feed with 20-24% protein. This helps them grow quickly.
- Growing Pullets (8-18 weeks): Use a grower feed with 16-18% protein. This prepares them for laying.
Chicken Preferences
- Some chickens are picky eaters! Crumbles are often a safe bet.
- If your chickens aren’t eating their feed, try a different brand or form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chicken Feed for Eggs
Here are some common questions people ask about feeding chickens for egg production.
Q: What is the most important nutrient for egg laying?
A: Calcium is super important. It helps chickens make strong eggshells.
Q: How much feed does a chicken eat a day?
A: A laying hen usually eats about a quarter of a pound of feed each day.
Q: Can I feed my chickens table scraps?
A: Yes, but only in moderation. Too many scraps can make them not eat their balanced feed.
Q: What’s the difference between starter, grower, and layer feed?
A: Starter feed has more protein for baby chicks. Grower feed is for young chickens. Layer feed has the right protein and calcium for hens laying eggs.
Q: How should I store chicken feed?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and stops pests.
Q: My chickens are laying soft-shelled eggs. What should I do?
A: Make sure they have enough calcium. Oyster shell is a good supplement to offer them.
Q: Can I mix different types of feed?
A: It’s best to stick to one type of feed designed for their age and purpose. Mixing might unbalance their diet.
Q: Is organic chicken feed better?
A: Organic feed means the ingredients are grown without certain pesticides or chemicals. It can be a good choice if you prefer it.
Q: How often should I change their feed?
A: You should change feed as your chickens grow, from starter to grower to layer. Don’t switch brands too often without reason.
Q: What if my chickens stop laying eggs?
A: Many things can cause this, like stress, age, or molting. But diet is key. Make sure they have good layer feed.