The Ultimate Chicken Feed Guide: What to Feed & When

Feeding chickens shouldn’t feel like solving a mystery. Yet, with so much information out there, it’s easy to feel unsure about what’s best for your flock. That’s why we’ve updated this guide—to provide straightforward, practical advice on chicken feed so you can keep your birds happy & thriving.

Whether you’re raising backyard hens, broilers, or chicks, understanding their nutritional needs is essential. From selecting the right organic chicken feed to making seasonal adjustments, we’ll walk you through it all. Think of this guide as your go-to reference for providing top-quality nutrition that leads to healthier chickens & better eggs.

 

 

Providing the right chicken feed at the right time is essential to raising healthy, productive chickens. From baby chicks to mature layers, each stage of growth requires a specific balance of nutrients to support development, egg production, or muscle growth. Understanding each growth stage & what feed is optimal ensures your flock gets the right nutrition throughout their lives.

Beyond chicken growth stages, the way feed is processed & presented also matters. Chicken Feed Types refer to the form of the feed—whether it's whole grains, pellets, mash, or crumbles—each offering unique benefits based on your chickens’ eating habits & nutritional needs.

Chicken Feed by Growth Stage

Chicken Feed by Growth Stage

• Starter Chick Feed – High-protein formula essential for early chick growth.

• Grower Chicken Feed – Supports pullets transitioning to adulthood before egg-laying.

• Layer Chicken Feed – Formulated to strengthen eggshells & maintain hen health. Perfect for roosters as well.

• Broiler Feed  – Designed for rapid weight/muscle gain in meat birds.
  
  

Common Chicken Feed Types

• Whole Grain: Composed of cracked grains & other unprocessed ingredients. You can see the ingredients in the feed as it is still in a natural state. The granola-like texture is fun for chickens to eat as it encourages a natural pecking instinct & the pieces are large enough for the chickens to grab.
  
  
• Pellet: The most common form of chicken feed available in the market. They are easy to manage, & the compact cylinders minimize waste. Pellets are processed by grinding up the ingredients & molding them into an oblong shape.
  
  
• Mash: An unprocessed form of feed composed of ground-up grains & other ingredients. Mash is most commonly fed to chicks since it is easier for them to consume. Since mash is finely ground, some may go to waste on the ground (chickens are messy eaters!). Many like to ferment their mash to get a thicker texture that is easier to manage. We'll get to fermentation later on in this guide.
  
  
• Crumbles: Essentially pellets that have been broken into smaller, coarse pieces. This form is achieved by partially crushing pellets, resulting in a texture that is easier for younger birds to eat. Crumbles serve as a transitional feed form between mash & pellets, making them great for growing chickens.
  
  

Most Common Organic Chicken Feed Types

Other Chicken Feed Options

Not all chickens eat the same way—some need cleaner ingredients, while others benefit from special formulations. These alternatives cater to different needs:

• Organic Chicken Feed – A GMO-free, all-natural option without synthetic additives or medications. Many organic feeds skip corn (a low cost filler) & soy, using peas, barley, or sunflower seeds for protein.

• Fermented Chicken Feed - Soaking Whole Grain or Mash for 24-48 hours boosts nutrient absorption, gut health, & digestion while reducing waste. Chickens eat less but get more nutrition.

• Medicated Chick Feed – Contains coccidiostats to protect chicks from coccidiosis but should not be used if they’ve already been vaccinated.

• Mixed Chicken Feed – Combines whole grains, pellets, or crumbles for variety while ensuring a balanced diet—great for picky eaters.

• DIY Chicken Feed – Allows full control over ingredients, avoiding fillers, but requires careful nutrient balancing to maintain proper chicken nutrition.
  

 

Understanding the essential components of chicken feed is key to providing a balanced diet that meets your flock’s nutritional needs. Much like how a balanced diet supports your health, chickens require a variety of nutrients to thrive. Chicken feed is made up of energy sources, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals, & other essential additives to support growth, egg production, & overall health.

Common Chicken Feed Ingredients

• Grains – Primary energy source (wheat, oats, barley, corn).

• Protein Sources – Supports muscle & feather growth (peas, fish meal, alfalfa).

• Fats & Oils – Provides essential fatty acids (flaxseed, fish oil).

• Vitamins & Minerals – Boosts immunity & bone strength (calcium, phosphorus, salt, probiotics).
  
  

Essential Nutrients by Chicken Age

• Starter Chick (0-8 weeks) – 20-22% protein, 0.9% calcium for rapid growth.

• Grower Chicken(8-20 weeks) – 16-18% protein, 0.8% calcium to maintain steady development.

• Layer Chicken (20+ weeks) – 15-18% protein, 3.5-4.5% calcium to ensure eggshell strength.

Excessive protein can cause kidney strain, while too little can lead to poor feathering & egg production. Organic chicken feed offers clean, high-quality nutrition with peas, fish meal, & alfalfa as great soy-free protein alternatives.

Organic Chicken Feed

For those looking to feed their flock the cleanest, most natural diet, organic chicken feed is a great option. This chicken feed is free from synthetic pesticides, GMOs, & fillers, providing healthier nutrition.

Many organic brands substitute traditional soy & corn with sunflower seeds, peas, & barley, making it ideal for those seeking corn-free, soy-free alternatives. Organic chicken feed not only promotes better overall chicken health but also enhances egg quality, often leading to richer yolks & better-tasting eggs.

 

 

Raising chickens is like feeding kids—some are picky, others eat anything, & their needs change with the seasons. With the right treats & supplements, you can keep them healthy & productive.

Chicken Supplements & Extras

• Oyster Shell – Provides essential calcium to support strong eggshells & prevent deficiencies in laying hens. Made from crushed limestone, it ensures consistent calcium absorption.

• Chicken Grit – Essential for digestion, grit helps break down feed in the gizzard as chickens do not have teeth. Even free-range birds benefit from supplemental grit to aid food breakdown.

Chicken Treats & Foraging

• Chicken Scratch – A mix of cracked corn, wheat, & millet that encourages foraging but should only be 10% of their diet.

• Mealworms – High in protein, mealworms enhance feather production & aid overall vitality.

• Black Soldier Fly Larvae – Packed with calcium & protein, these larvae boost eggshell strength, making them ideal for laying hens.
  
  

 

Fermenting chicken feed is a simple yet powerful way to enhance poultry nutrition while reducing waste. By soaking feed in water for 24-48 hours, the natural fermentation process unlocks additional nutrients, improves digestion, & promotes gut health.

This method makes feed easier to absorb, enhances its nutritional value, & even helps cut down on feed costs. Whether you're feeding standard or organic chicken feed, fermentation is an easy upgrade that supports stronger eggshells, healthier feathers, & better overall flock well-being.

Benefits of Fermenting Chicken Feed

Many backyard chicken keepers incorporate fermented chicken feed into their routine because of its clear advantages:

• Boosts Nutrient Absorption – Fermentation breaks down anti-nutrients (like phytates), making proteins, vitamins, & minerals more available to chickens.

• Supports Gut Health & Digestion – Natural probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, reducing digestive issues.

• Reduces Feed Waste & Costs – Fermented feed expands in volume, keeping chickens full on less feed, which helps stretch your feed budget.

• Improves Eggshell Strength & Feather Growth – Fermentation enhances calcium & protein uptake, leading to stronger eggshells & better feather quality.

• Provides Natural Hydration – Since fermented feed contains moisture, it helps chickens stay hydrated—especially during hot weather.

How to Ferment Chicken Feed

Fermenting chicken feed is easy & only requires a few simple materials. Follow the step-by-step guide below to start feeding your flock a probiotic-rich diet.

What You’ll Need:

• Chicken feed (Mash & Whole Grain recommended)

• A BPA-free container (glass, stainless steel, or food-grade plastic)

• Non-chlorinated water (filtered or dechlorinated)

• A breathable cover (loose-fitting lid, towel, or cheesecloth)

• Rubber bands

• Strainer

Download Other Chicken Guides

Here are a few other tips to keep in mind when fermenting chicken feed:

• If you use a plastic container, make sure it’s BPA-free.

• Do not seal the jar with a lid. The container must be breathable.

• It is normal for bubbles to appear on the surface.

• Make sure there is always enough water during fermentation.

• Stir up the fermented mixture prior to feeding.

• Only serve the amount of feed chickens will eat at one time.

• You can reuse the water & add more feed—it will ferment faster with leftover water.

 

 

Feeding your chickens isn’t just about keeping the feeder full—it’s about knowing how much & what they need based on their stage of life, activity levels, & even the season. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can reduce egg production & weaken your flock.

How Much to Feed Chickens by Age

• Chicks (0-8 weeks) – Around 0.25 lbs (1/2 to 1 cup) per chick per day or roughly 1-1.5 lbs per week.
  
  
• Growers (8-20 weeks) – About 0.25-0.5 lbs (1 cup) per pullet per day or roughly 2-3 lbs per week.
  
  
• Layers (20+ weeks) – Typically 0.25-0.5 lbs (1 cup) per hen per day or roughly 2-3 lbs a per week.

Try Chicken Feed Cost Calculator

Adjust portions if your flock free-ranges or if feed is consistently left over. Monitoring consumption helps maintain a balanced diet without waste. These amounts are estimates & can vary based on the type of feed, individual chicken needs, environmental factors, & breed differences.

Feeding Chickens in Winter & Summer

Your chickens' dietary needs shift with the seasons.

• Winter: Chickens eat 20-30% more to generate body heat. Offer energy-dense grains like chicken scratch to help them stay warm overnight. Adding black oil sunflower seeds can also provide extra fat & energy during colder months. (Related article: Winter Guide for Chickens)

  Summer: Chickens eat less in hot weather, so focus on keeping feed fresh & offering hydrating treats like watermelon & cucumber. Adding electrolytes to their water & supplementing with high-protein treats like mealworms can help support energy levels & egg production during heat stress.
  
  

 

 

Switching up your chickens’ feed can feel like changing their favorite meal—it takes a little patience. Whether you’re trying out a new brand or transitioning to organic feed, it’s best to ease them into it gradually. This approach keeps their digestive systems happy & helps them adjust without stress.

Transition Feed by Chicken Age

Transitioning chickens through different feed stages is essential for healthy growth, egg production, & digestion. A gradual feed switch helps prevent digestive issues & ensures proper nutrient absorption at each stage.

• Starter Chick
  Begin with 100% Starter feed, which is high in protein to support early development. Around Week 7, start mixing 75% Starter feed + 25% Grower feed for a few days. Gradually adjust the ratio, reaching 100% Grower feed by Week 9.

• Grower Chicken
  Keep your pullets on 100% Grower feed to support muscle growth & steady development. At Weeks 19-20, introduce 75% Grower feed + 25% Layer feed to help their bodies adjust to increased calcium levels. Increase the Layer feed portion until reaching 100% Layer feed by Week 21.

• Layer Chicken
  Once chickens begin laying eggs, switch to 100% Layer feed, which contains added calcium for strong eggshells. Supplemental Oyster Shell can further support shell strength.

For a smooth feed transition, adjust the mix gradually, monitoring your flock’s appetite & digestion. A balanced chicken diet at every stage ensures healthy growth, optimal egg production, & strong immune function.

Transition from Old Chicken Feed

Switching your chickens to a new feed should be done gradually to prevent digestive upset & ensure they accept the change. A slow transition allows their digestive system to adjust while avoiding wasted feed if they’re hesitant.

8-Day Chicken Feed Transition

A quicker transition for chickens that adapt easily to new chicken feed.

• Days 1: 100% old chicken feed

• Days 2-3: 25% new chicken feed, 75% old chicken feed

• Days 4-5: 50% new chicken feed, 50% old chicken feed

• Days 6-7: 75% new chicken feed, 25% old chicken feed

• Days 8: 100% new chicken feed

Watch for signs of digestive discomfort (like loose droppings) & adjust if needed. If your chickens hesitate with the new chicken feed, extending each stage slightly can help.

 

 

Common challenges come with chicken ownership, but we've got practical tips to help you keep your flock healthy & happy.

Common Chicken Feed Misconceptions

• “Chickens can eat anything.”
  Not true! While they peck at scraps, chickens need a balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies & digestive issues.

• “Chicken Feed is the same for all breeds.”
  Larger breeds like Buff Orpington and Plymouth Rock chickens consume more feed overall, while smaller breeds like Silkie chickens eat less. However, protein requirements should still align with their growth stage. Adjust feed based on breed for optimal health.

• “Organic chicken feed is no different.”
  Organic chicken feed is free from GMOs, synthetic additives, and fillers, providing a cleaner, nutrient-dense diet for healthier chickens. High-quality ingredients support digestion, immune health, and strong eggshells, while also enhancing egg quality with richer yolks and higher Omega-3 content.
  

• “Free-range & pasture-raised are the same.”
  Pasture-raised chickens roam freely, eating grass & bugs, while free-range birds may have limited outdoor access. (Related article: Free Range Eggs)

• “Scraps can replace chicken feed.”
  Fresh greens & scraps are great treats but shouldn’t exceed 10% of their diet. Chickens need complete nutrition to stay healthy. Avoid toxic foods like onions & chocolate.

Establishing a Feeding Routine

Chickens thrive on routine, so feeding them at the same time each day helps keep them healthy & happy. Consistent feeding encourages good digestion & minimizes stress. Ideally, feed your flock at dawn & again in the late afternoon. This simulates the natural rhythm of foraging during the day, keeping them active & content.

If you free-feed, make sure the food remains fresh, as stale or spoiled feed can harm your chickens. Check the feed regularly, especially during hotter months when spoilage can occur quickly. Also, make sure that the water provided is fresh & clean. Dirty or stagnant water can lead to health problems & reduce their consumption.

How to Identify Nutritional Deficiencies

• Feather Loss – Rapid feather loss may indicate a protein deficiency, affecting growth & egg production. Ensure feed has adequate protein levels.

• Weak Eggshells – Soft or thin eggshells often signal a calcium deficiency. Offer oyster shell or other calcium supplements to strengthen shells.

• Poor Growth – Slow or stunted growth in chicks & young chickens suggests a lack of essential nutrients, particularly protein. Check feed quality & intake.

• Behavior Changes – Lethargy, reduced appetite, or unusual behavior may point to vitamin or mineral deficiencies. A balanced diet & supplements can help.

• Irregular Egg Production – Poor nutrition, stress, or dehydration can cause fewer, smaller, or misshapen eggs. Ensure proper protein, calcium, & fresh water.

If these issues persist, consult a vet to adjust their nutrition.

Chicken Feed Storage Tips

Proper chicken feed storage is essential for maintaining its freshness, quality, & nutritional value. Here’s how to keep your chicken feed in optimal condition:

• Cool, Dry Place: Always store chicken feed in a cool, dry area to prevent mold growth or spoilage. Humidity can quickly ruin the feed, turning it into a breeding ground for bacteria & fungi.

• Airtight Containers: Store chicken feed in airtight containers to protect it from pests, such as rodents, insects, & birds. Containers should be sealed tightly to prevent exposure to air, which degrades the feed’s nutrients.

• Check Shelf Life & Storage – Chicken feed quality & freshness depend on storage conditions & formulation. While many feeds are best used within six months, some well-milled, properly stored options can retain their nutritional value for up to a year. To prevent nutrient loss & digestive issues, always check for signs of spoilage & ensure feed is kept in a cool, dry, & sealed container.

• Bulk Storage: If you purchase chicken feed in bulk, break it up into smaller portions & store it in sealed containers to ensure the bulk feed remains protected from air & moisture. You can keep the bulk supply in a large, sealed container & pull smaller amounts for daily feeding.

 

Now that you're armed with the know-how on chicken feed, you're ready to raise a happy, thriving flock!

From choosing the right chicken feed type to understanding key nutrients, giving your chickens the best diet ensures healthier birds, stronger eggs, & better overall well-being. High-quality options, including organic chicken feed, can make all the difference in their growth & egg production.

Got a question or think we missed something? Drop us a line at milefour@milefour.com—we’d love to hear from you!

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Sources:

U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
USDA Feed  & Animal Management for Poultry (October 2003)
AMS.USDA Organic Poultry Production for Meat & Eggs 
Poultry.Extension.org: Feeds & Feeding of Poultry
Purdue University - Animal Sciences - Requirements for Poultry