There are several factors to consider when selecting a brand of chicken feed, but the basics remain the same. You should choose a brand that is proven and offers excellent value for your money. You can also select soy-free varieties if you prefer. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of different brands of chicken feed. If you have questions, feel free to contact us. We are happy to answer your queries and help you find the best product for your chickens.
Contents
Nutrient value
The nutrient value of chicken feed depends on its composition. In general, chickens need 38 different nutrients, plus adequate water and metabolizable energy. However, some extra nutrients may be needed in certain conditions, including vitamin C and pyrroloquinoline quinone. Several heavy metals may also be necessary. Generally, chickens need approximately half the amount of these nutrients in their diet. A balanced diet should contain at least one source of each of these vitamins.
The energy requirements of poultry are met by fats, oils and carbohydrates. These compounds contain twice as much ME as proteins and carbohydrates. They are also important carriers of the essential fatty acid linoleic acid. The source of these fatty acids varies, but all are necessary. For example, laying hens need 3.5 percent calcium and 0.3 to 4% phosphorus. But they can get these from other sources, including vegetable oils.
Value for money
There are a number of things to keep in mind when buying chicken feed, and the price can vary greatly depending on who you buy it from and what you look for in a product. Organic and local mills also have a wide range of prices, so make sure to compare the nutritional content and cost per pound of feed before buying it. Be aware of regional suppliers as some may only ship locally. Some feeds are better suited to specific regions than others, so it’s best to shop around.
Buying in bulk will help you save money on chicken feed. Purchasing feed in bulk is only necessary if you have a large flock of chickens. However, it’s important to consider the protein and nutritional value of the feed you’re buying. Feed that’s low in protein will have fewer nutrients and may decrease egg production and lead to lower egg production. You can also cut your feed costs in other ways, such as through regular worming.
Brand
There are a lot of different brands of chicken feed available, but few can offer the same amount of value for your money. High-quality chicken feed is a firm favorite among backyard chicken keepers and contains the proper amounts of protein, fiber, calcium, phosphorus, and added vitamins and minerals. It is also very convenient to use as it comes in convenient 25-pound bags. Here are a few to consider. Read on to learn more about what each brand offers.
Organic or soy-free chicken feeds are better for your hens, but they are more expensive. Choose vegetarian or organic chicken feeds to avoid exposing your hens to animal products. While chickens are omnivores, they do eat a variety of plant-based foods, so they don’t have the same health problems that vegetarians do. While you may not care about animal products, you can buy organic or soy-free feed to keep your hens happy and healthy.
Soy-free options
Soy-free options for chicken feed can help reduce egg allergens, but what should you look for? While soy is a good protein source, too much of it can have detrimental effects on your flock’s health. The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act identifies soy as one of the top eight most common food allergies. However, soy is still a valuable part of your flock’s diet.
Soy is not grown in significant quantities in the UK, so most of it is imported from other countries, including the United States. Soy farming in Brazil is directly linked to deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. Even organic soy is imported from the US using fossil fuels. Most soy is also GMO, which means it’s genetically modified and resistant to weedkillers like Roundup. This means that it will eventually metabolise and retain toxic chemicals from the environment.
Organic options
If you want to raise healthy chickens and avoid antibiotics, try organic options for chicken feed. Not only are these products grown and processed without chemicals, they also contain no GMOs or preservatives. Organic feed is also packed with vital nutrients that poultry need for proper growth and development. In addition, non-gm ingredients improve the flavor and texture of the egg yolks. If you’re concerned about GMOs, read up on the risks of GMOs and GMO-free chicken feed.
Luckily, there are several organic chicken feed options available. Organic layers love crumbles, which contain 17% protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They also have probiotics and enzymes, which improve their health. Organic layer crumbles are best because they last longer and are less likely to dust. And you can choose crumbles if your hens are picky eaters. Several brands of organic layer crumbles are also available.
