Chicken layer feeds can vary in their protein content, but all contain high levels of essential amino acids. It is best to feed the young chicks and pullets higher protein layer feed as a way to ensure rapid growth and development of feathers. As chicks and pullets mature, their protein requirements decrease and level out, while their protein needs increase again during molt and egg laying. A layer feed formulated for laying hens should contain 16% to 18% protein.
Contents
All-natural ingredients
All-natural ingredients are essential for your poultry’s health and well-being. GMO feed poses serious health risks to humans and chickens. Organic chicken feed contains only natural ingredients and is free of synthetic ingredients. Chickens can digest pelleted feed easily and can get the nutrients they need throughout the day. The ingredients in organic feed are not tested for hormones or other contaminants. They are grown without pesticides and are grown without genetic engineering.
Non-GMO
If you want to feed your laying hens a non-GMO ration, consider Small Pet Select Chicken Layer Feed. This grain-free mix is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, and protein. It is also enriched with vitamins and minerals. Although it is not certified organic, this grain-free mix will last longer in your coop. It will be available only in a 40-pound back, so you should avoid stocking up on it for a long time.
Non-GMO corn
If you’re concerned about the food you’re giving your poultry, you may want to consider buying Non-GMO corn for chicken layer feed. This type of corn is certified organic and free from GMOs. You can also find Non-GMO Project Verified feed. You can read more about non-GMO feed from Scratch and Peck Feeds. This organic chicken feed is a great choice for backyard chickens.
Non-GMO soybean meal
Using non-GMO soybean meal for chicken layer feed is a great way to increase the nutritional value of your flock. This feed contains a wide variety of nutrients and is ideal for laying hens. Non-GMO soybean meal is an excellent choice for your flock, as it provides the essential nutrients your hens need to produce eggs. It is also low in gluten, high in calcium, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. You can buy this feed in 50-pound bags, 55-gallon drums, and even a ton bag.
Oats
Oats are an excellent addition to any poultry diet. Aside from being a great source of protein and vitamins, oatmeal is also high in antioxidants. It also helps prevent pasty butt in baby chicks. The addition of cinnamon and cayenne pepper to the feed is also beneficial for the flock in the winter months. Oats contain essential B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great food to feed chickens, but it has a few drawbacks. This food is not a complete protein source, and the low nutritional value makes it unsuitable for feeding the entire flock. Luckily, you can spice up this feed by adding different ingredients, such as cinnamon. This way, your flock will get the benefit of eating a nutritious snack before the roost.
Oat bran
Oat bran has been studied as a possible replacement for wheat and corn in poultry production. The two ingredients are known to lower cholesterol and lipid levels in egg yolks. Oat bran and cotton seed hulls also reduce egg-yolk weight. These two ingredients, however, do not appear to affect egg-yolk cholesterol concentration or early production parameters. In addition, they have antimicrobial properties and are a source of dietary fiber.
Oat meal
Oat meal for chicken layer feed may have a variety of benefits. In studies, oats have been found to improve the storage properties of eggs. Eggs from oat-containing flocks are almost indistinguishable from those from non-oat controls. This study lasted 30 days, which is close to the maximum storage time of five weeks. In addition, oats are high in lipids, and soy oil was added to control diets to compensate for this.
Oat shell
Oat shell is an excellent alternative to wheat or corn for chicken layer feed. It is high in lipids and helps maintain a good balance in poultry pellets. While it has a high lipid content, oat hulls reduce feather pecking in flocks of laying hens. It may even help improve pellet quality. The researchers conducted the study at the Oregon State University. They fed the mixtures to the chickens in mash form.
