From supplying you with healthy eggs to eating up garden pests, the benefits of raising chickens in your backyard are aplenty.
And when it comes to feeding the flock, it’s important to choose a high-quality chicken feed to give them all the nutrients required for healthy growth. So, whether you’ve started raising chickens or nurturing them for years, finding the best organic chicken feed is crucial to maintaining their health.
Speaking from experience, choosing the right organic feed requires little research, particularly when the market is flooded with tons of brands selling conventional products. Of course, I learned the difference between the two from my father, who loved raising chickens in his backyard.
Hey, everyone, I’m Stacy, and today I decided to put together a review-based guide on the best organic chicken feed you can buy to feed your flocks. So, grab a cup of coffee and start reading!
Top 5 Organic Chicken Feed Reviews
1. FLYGRUBS Superior To Dry Mealworms For Chicken
All-natural and high protein, this FLYGRUBS chicken feed contains Black Soldier Fly larvae, which are more nutritious than dried mealworms. Thankfully, it promotes stronger eggshells, so it’s my go-to pick for laying chickens.
Product Highlights
Right off the bat, this chicken feed takes the crown for its all-natural and organic formula, which makes it excellent for layer hens. Available in one pound and five pound packs, it is loaded with highly nutritious dried Black Soldier Fly larvae, protein, phosphorus, healthy fat, fiber lysine, and dietary fat.
Thanks to lauric acid or healthy fats, it prevents and fights diseases and infections in chickens. It also supports the hens' immune system, keeping them healthy and happy. Furthermore, it promotes better feather production and restores energy in chickens, which is impressive.
What’s more, this premium feed additive can also be fed to turtles, ducks, bluebirds, and bearded dragons. Another noteworthy aspect is that it comes in a sturdy box with a resealable bag so that you can store it without any worries.
Additionally, this grain-free feed is FDA-approved, so you can rest assured that it’s safe for your flocks.
What’s There To Like About It?
Without a doubt, raising healthy chickens is my topmost priority, which is why I decided to give FLYGRUBS a shot. And since the day I’ve started feeding this to my hens, they gather around me because they love the treat. Feeding them only a handful daily has improved the quality of their eggshells.
Also, I was pretty surprised by the smell of the product because it wasn’t fishy but rather pleasant. Lastly, the brand offers excellent value for money as it will last long unless you have a large flock of hens.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Overall, it’s a great supplement for chickens that don’t get enough natural grazing, thanks to the high-quality ingredients. However, make sure you combine them with existing chicken feed because they aren’t meant to be eaten without mixing.
Pros and Cons of FLYGRUBS Superior To Dry Mealworms For Chicken
Pros
Cons
- Nutrient-Dense Chicken and Bird Treats: FLYGRUBS dried black soldier fly larvae provide a good source of protein (36-42%), essential fats and vital nutrients for chickens, ducks, turkeys and wild bird
- 85x More Calcium Than Mealworms: These high-calcium grubs support stronger eggshells and healthier feather production in laying hens while promoting optimal energy levels in poultry and backyard birds
- Ideal for All Seasons: Unlike live crickets or freeze-dried worms, these dried larvae require no refrigeration and offer a mess-free, long-lasting treat for chickens, birds, and other poultry breeds
2. Scratch and Peck Feeds Organic Feed
Formulated with essential vitamins, minerals, sustainable grub protein, and other healthy ingredients, this Organic Feed by Scratch and Peck Feeds is all you need for growing healthy flocks. What’s more, it’s free from soy and corn and non-medicated, so you can rest assured that it’s safe for your hens.
Product Highlights
Starting with its nutritious formula, this chicken feed contains a blend of 16% protein mash feed and organic whole grains, essential oils, vitamins, minerals, and sustainable grub protein. So, feeding this regularly to your chickens will help them grow healthy bones, muscles, and fluffy feathers.
Unlike conventional chicken feed, it isn’t loaded with soy or corn, which makes it the healthiest chicken feed you can get your hands on.
Furthermore, you can serve it to your flocks, either dry or fermented, as per their liking. If they peck their feeder clean, serving dry feed ensures they receive complete nutrition. However, if they pick out ingredients and leave the rest, fermenting the feed is your best bet.
Packed in 10-pound, 25-pound, and 40-pound packets, it is available in grower, layer, and starter styles, so you’re free to pick the option you want. All in all, its premium ingredients make it an excellent product for laying chickens and ducks.
What’s There To Like About It?
A few years back, my father suggested I buy this chicken feed for my laying hens because it’s packed with all the nutrition they need. Of course, my hens started laying healthy and tasty eggs with orange-golden yolks and have become healthier than ever.
Another reason why I prefer this is that it is free from soy, corn, and medications, so my flocks are fed with nutritious food and not with allergens or fillers.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Contrary to the FLYGRUBS Superior To Dry Mealworms For Chicken, this feed has an unpleasant smell, which is why it has earned the second spot on my list. However, my chickens love it and have become healthy since I started feeding them with this product, so I don’t mind the smell.
Pros and Cons of Scratch and Peck Feeds Organic Feed
Pros
Cons
- Boosts Growth and Vitality - Packed with 16% protein from organic grains, this feed promotes rapid muscle growth, strong bones, and fluffy, vibrant feathers for your chickens and ducks, ensuring a thriving flock.
- Pure Organic Nutrition - Give your flock a healthier choice with our premium feed, made from a formula with no unnecessary additives, delivering clean, wholesome nutrition for your laying chickens and ducks.
- Versatile Feeding Options - Choose what’s best! Feed dry for easy, mess-free meals or choose fermented to prevent picky eaters from selecting only their favorites. Both methods provide balanced nutrition, keeping every bird healthy and satisfied.
3. Manna Pro Organic Layer Pellets
Organic and non-GMO certified, Manna Pro Organic Layer Pellets are formulated with superior nutrition for egg-laying chickens. Since it comes in pellet form, it’s easy to feed and doesn’t cause any mess in the coup, which is why it’s my go-to pick for mature hens.
Product Highlights
Since 1985, Manna Pro has been committed to delivering high-quality, wholesome feed, treats, and supplements for animals, and its Organic Layer Pellets are no exception.
Made of naturally sourced ingredients, it is free from artificial ingredients, pesticides, medications, and GMO compounds. And its USDA organic certification testifies to its quality and purity so that you can treat your hens with it without any second thoughts.
Available in pellet form, it reduces waste in the coop that is usually caused by powdered grains. Surely, it is made for chickens, but you can also feed it to the ducks in your backyard to ensure they grow healthy.
Furthermore, it’s available in 10lbs and 20lbs sizes, so you can order the one you consider ideal for the flocks. Those who raise about over 15 chickens should go for the 20lbs pack so that your hens can enjoy the treat uninterruptedly.
What’s There To Like About It?
First and foremost, I appreciate that the brand sells its feed in pellet form, which is why it doesn’t create a mess in the chicken coup. Since it’s packed with 16% nutrition, it delivers all the necessary nutrients that they need to produce tasty eggs.
Furthermore, I appreciate that the brand doesn’t use any additives, and I can feed it to my hens without any worries.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Surely, it’s one of the best organic chicken feeds you can consider for your laying hens. However, it comes with an expensive price tag, so you’ll have to shell out a few extra bucks to buy them, so it might not be ideal for those who raise large flocks.
If you’re looking for an affordable organic chicken feed without compromising quality, the Scratch and Peck Feeds Organic Feed is a better fit.
Pros and Cons of Manna Pro Organic Layer Pellets
Pros
Cons
- USDA ORGANIC & NON-GMO: Manna Pro Organic Layer Feed is both USDA Organic and Non-GMO certified
- PELLET FORM: Easy to feed pellet form that helps eliminate waste and is suitable for both chickens and ducks
- CRAFTED FOR LAYING HENS: Nutritious and complete feed for laying hens 16 weeks and older
4. Purina Organic Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed
Packed with 16% protein and 3.25% calcium, the Purina Organic Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed ensures consistent egg production while maintaining the health of your hens. Moreover, it’s rich in antioxidants, supporting their digestive health and the immune system.
Product Highlights
Sold in a 35lb box, this chicken feed steals the show with Oyster Strong System, which contains a blend of oyster shell, Vitamin D, and manganese. So, when you feed this to your laying hens, the large particles of oyster shells release calcium into their body slowly and steadily during the night and strengthen the eggshells.
Furthermore, it contains 3.25% calcium and 16% protein, so it ensures consistent egg production, and you can enjoy a healthy breakfast every morning. It also keeps the hens healthy and makes their feathers fluffy and beautiful.
Over and above that, it is packed with antioxidants, which will boost their immune system and improve their digestive health. It is certified organic by USDA, which means it has gone through rigorous testing to ensure it’s up to par.
What’s There To Like About It?
A few months back, when one of my chickens had become weak and was losing feathers, my friend Alice suggested I nourish her with this chicken feed from Purina Organic. Of course, I ordered one for her, and after feeding it regularly for a few weeks, I noticed significant improvements in her health.
Moreover, her soft and brittle-shelled eggs were transformed into healthy ones. Last but not least, it has also improved her digestive health and immune system.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
My only gripe is that the brand doesn’t offer its feed in a smaller pack, which might be a bummer for those who raise only a few chickens in their backyard. So, if you’re looking for small packs of chicken feed, you can opt for the Manna Pro Organic Layer Pellets, which offers them in 20lb and 30lb packs.
Pros and Cons of Purina Organic Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed
Pros
Cons
- Certified USDA Organic - Fulfills USDA requirements to guarantee the product is made without the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- Includes Oyster Strong System - Large-particle calcium breaks down steadily, so calcium is available during the entire egg formation process
- 16% protein, 3.25% calcium - Maintains hen health and supports consistent egg production
5. Mile Four Organic Layer Chicken Feed
If you still haven’t found a high-quality organic chicken feed that is free from soy and corn, this Organic Layer Chicken Feed from Mile Four is worth considering. Consisting of a blend of fish meal, barley, peas, kelp, and other nutritious ingredients, it improves the overall health of the chicken.
Product Highlights
Committed to providing the best possible chicken feed, Mile Flour uses 100% locally sourced ingredients from U.S. farms, which speaks volumes about the quality of its products. Packed with flax meal, poultry meal, fish meal, kelp, barley, and peas, it packs a powerful punch.
Not only does it help chickens lay deeper, golden yolk eggs, but it also ensures they aren’t soft or brittle. Besides, it ensures consistent egg production, so you won’t fall short on them.
When fed regularly, you’ll notice an improvement in their plumage, combs, and overall health, which makes it a must-have for those who raise flocks of chicken.
Over and above that, this organic and non-GMO feed is available in plenty of flavors, from whole grain to mash.
What’s There To Like About It?
Honestly, this chicken feed caught my attention because of its claims of improving the plumage and combs while ensuring a consistent supply of eggs. To my surprise, this product lives up to its claims because the egg quality of my flocks has improved, and they appear more healthy than before.
Additionally, I appreciate the variety of flavors and sizes offered by the brand that makes it easy for homeowners and farmers to choose the one they want. Lastly, it is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, which is the icing on the cake.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though known for its host of health benefits, diatomaceous earth causes allergic reactions in some people. So, if you’re allergic to it, I suggest refraining from buying it because it contains diatomaceous earth. In such situations, you can consider going for the Purina Organic Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed or Manna Pro Organic Layer Pellets.
Pros and Cons of Mile Four Organic Layer Chicken Feed
Pros
Cons
- 100% USA GROWN, ORGANIC, NON-GMO GRAINS: 100% of grains are certified Organic, certified Non-GMO, corn-free, soy-free (soy & corn fillers can lead to vitamin & mineral deficiencies), non-medicated, grown on local, U.S.A. family farms & milled fresh
- ORGANIC EGGS TASTE & LOOK DIFFERENT: Deep golden yolks, strong eggshells & consistent egg production. High-quality organic chicken feed leads to increased egg quantity as well as larger & tastier organic eggs
- HEALTHIER & HAPPIER CHICKENS: Shiney plumage, bright colored combs, strong, confident chickens with high activity level. Quality organic chicken feed formulated with 16% protein, essential vitamins & minerals for optimal health, nutrition & egg production
Buyers Guide
So, those are the five best organic chicken feed on the market that you can purchase to keep your chickens healthy while producing eggs consistently.
Though knowing the top five options helps to a great extent, choosing one still remains a daunting task. That’s because there are a lot of factors that you must consider before purchasing an organic chicken feed.
For instance, when I was looking for an organic chicken feeder, I searched for the options that provided adequate nutrition to my chickens and improved their overall health. Other than that, I also checked the ingredients added to it to ensure I fed them with quality products.
To save you some hassles, I decided to curate this buyer’s guide, where I’ve discussed some important factors that you should consider before buying the best organic chicken feed.
1. Stage Of Growth
Before rushing to place an order, make sure you consider the stage of growth your chicken is in. That’s because they require different nutrients during diverse development stages, so it’s important to pick the right one for them.
If you’re looking for a chicken feed for starters, consider going for a high protein product because it will boost their bone density and muscle growth. Meanwhile, a calcium-rich meal is excellent for laying hens because it results in stronger and healthier eggs while ensuring consistent production.
2. Types Of Feed
Another important factor that you must consider is the type of feed because they are available in three different forms - mash, crumble, and pellets.
For chicks, the mash is excellent because it contains finely grounded feed, so you mix it with a little bit of water to oatmeal consistency, and that’s it. They are considered superior to other types because they are packed with nutritious ingredients, which is why it’s excellent for chicks.
On the other hand, it is also available in crumble form, containing small pieces of chicken feed. Like mash, you will have to mix it with water before feeding your chickens with it.
And if you’re a flock keeper who is looking for a feed for adults or layering chickens, going for pellet form is the best bet.
3. Ingredients
Of course, the efficacy of a chicken feed lies in the ingredients used in formulating the mix, which is why it’s of crucial importance. Always go for feeds that are made of naturally sourced ingredients harvested from local farms because they are free from pesticides.
Also, I suggest you avoid going for feeds that are composed of synthetic and GMO compounds or are loaded with artificial colorings and additives. That’s because they cause more harm to the chickens’ health than good, so it’s better to refrain from buying them.
4. Certifications
What sets organic chicken feed apart from conventional ones are their certifications. Thus, make sure you always ask the brand for their certifications to ensure they are organic and free from GMO compounds.
More often than not, organic feeds are USDA and non-GMO certified, so you should always invest in the feed that displays these certificates on the website. This way, you can rest assured that you’re feeding the chickens with high-quality feed, so it won’t have a negative impact on their health.
5. Brand
Consider purchasing feed from a highly reputed brand because they are trustworthy and use only quality ingredients to manufacture their products without compromising quality. That’s because unpopular brands use marketing gimmicks to sell their low-quality products. In reality, they are nothing but cheap ingredients packed alluringly, which will cause damage to your chickens’ health.
Though you may have to shell out a few extra bucks, you’ll have peace of mind that the flocks are feeding on a good-quality product.
6. Price
With tons of options on the market, getting your hands on a reasonably priced chicken organic feed isn’t impossible. That’s because there are brands that sell chicken feeds at affordable prices without compromising quality.
However, I suggest you don’t decide solely because of the price tag of the product, as not all reasonably priced products are up to the standard. For this reason, I suggest you do some research, compare the nutrients, check customer reviews, and then decide whether you should give it a go or not.
And to avoid overspending, the best thing you can do is prepare a budget before shopping for chicken feeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, corn and soy aren’t safe for chickens as they have a negative impact on their health, making them susceptible to diseases. That’s why I suggest that you refrain from going for feeds that are packed with these ingredients because they will deteriorate their health.
You should never buy chicken feed in bulk unless you have to feed a large flock because they become moldy after a few weeks. Ideally, you should buy chicken feed of about 20lbs or 30lbs because they last for three weeks.
My Final Recommendation
Without a doubt, organic chicken feeds are excellent for laying hens because they are packed with all the nutrients they will need to lay healthy eggs.Â
But before I call the curtains for the day, here’s a quick rundown of my favorites. The FLYGRUBS Superior To Dry Mealworms For Chicken is the overall winner because it contains 85% more calcium than mealworms, promoting stronger eggshells.Â
However, if you’re looking for a chicken feed that boosts the growth of muscles and healthy bones and makes feathers fluffy, the Scratch and Peck Feeds Organic Feed is the best bet.Â
With that, I’ve reached the end of my review-based guide on the best organic chicken feed. I hope my recommendations were helpful in choosing the best one for your hens.Â
If you feel stuck in deciding which feed to go for, refer to the buying guide, and I’m confident you’ll make an informed decision. Adios!Â