Country Heritage Feeds is a family-owned Australian stockfeed business that makes certified organic feed for poultry and other animals. If you keep backyard hens in Australia, its layer mashes and pellets are worth a look. If you live elsewhere, you will not find it on local shelves.
Who makes Country Heritage feed
Country Heritage Feeds is based in Pittsworth, Queensland, about 30 minutes west of Toowoomba. The business began in nearby Highfields in 1998 and moved to its current site in 2010. It describes its approach as “good, simple, organic,” uses Australian grains from certified organic farmers, works with a nutritionist on its recipes, and ships nationally.
Layer products
Retailers list several layer feeds under the brand, in different textures and labels. Names and label colors can change, so check the current bag. Options listed by Australian pet and farm retailers include:
- Organic Coarse Layer, a whole-grain style mash with grains such as wheat, sorghum and barley plus a protein pellet and calcium.
- Organic Backyard Layer Mash, in soy-free and vegetarian versions.
- Organic Free Range Layer Mash and Pellets, for hens that forage.
Layer feeds are meant for hens that are laying, around 18 to 20 weeks of age and older. Younger birds need a starter or grower feed with less calcium.
Is organic feed worth it?
Organic certification means the grains were grown without synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. It does not by itself make a feed more nutritious. What matters most is that the feed is complete for the bird’s life stage, fresh, and fed in the right amount. Our guide to choosing chicken feed explains how to read a feed tag, and our review of Little Peckers chicken feed covers a UK option.
Tips for feeding coarse mash
- Offer feed in a feeder that limits waste. Coarse mixes let hens pick out favorite pieces and leave the rest.
- Keep fresh water available and supply grit if hens eat whole grains.
- Store feed in a dry, sealed bin to avoid mold and pests.
- Do not feed layer feed to chicks or roosters as their main diet.
Bottom Line
Country Heritage is a legitimate Australian organic brand with several layer feeds for backyard hens. Check the label for your hens’ age and needs, and compare local prices and freshness before you buy.
