Every backyard flock owner knows the quiet pride of collecting a basket full of perfect, warm eggs. But when those shells start thinning or laying slows down, itâs easy to worry youâre doing something wrong. The truth is, what goes into your hens directly determines what they give back to you.
Iâm Mo Mahin â the founder and writer behind Furric. Iâve spent years analyzing poultry nutrition standards, consulting veterinary resources on layer health, and listening to the real-world results shared by dedicated flock keepers.
This guide breaks down the top-rated feeds, key ingredients like calcium and probiotics, and expert tips to help you confidently choose the best food for laying chickens.
How To Choose The Best Food For Laying Chickens
Selecting the right feed for your laying flock doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on a few key nutritional pillars, you can make a confident choice that keeps your hens healthy and producing beautifully.
Protein & Calcium Balance
Laying hens have unique dietary demands. They require a balanced diet with around 16% protein to support egg development and muscle maintenance. Equally critical is calciumâlaying hens need 3-4% calcium in their diet to form strong eggshells. A deficiency here leads to thin, brittle shells. Many keepers offer crushed oyster shell free-choice so hens can self-regulate their intake alongside a complete layer feed.
Feed Form: Mash vs. Crumbles vs. Pellets
The physical form of the feed influences how much your hens eat and how much waste you clean up. Crumbles are generally easier for hens to peck and digest, making them a popular choice. Pellets reduce the amount of waste and dust but can be too large for younger birds or bantams. Mash, often a whole grain mix, is excellent for fermenting and allows you to see exactly what you’re feeding, but it can be more prone to spoilage if not managed carefully.
Ingredients & Certifications
Beyond the basics, look for added value. Probiotics support digestive health, prebiotics aid nutrient absorption, and ingredients like flaxseed or algae can boost Omega-3 fatty acids in the eggs. Certifications like Non-GMO, USDA Organic, or Soy-Free give you additional confidence in the sourcing and quality of the ingredients, especially if you prioritize clean eating for your family.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Type | Best For | Key Feature | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Layena+ | Pellet | Best Overall Value | 250mg Omega-3 per egg | Amazon |
| Prairie’s Choice | Crumble | Premium Non-GMO | 16% Protein, Gluten-Free | Amazon |
| Scratch and Peck | Whole Grain Mash | Organic Fermentable | USDA Organic & Non-GMO | Amazon |
| Manna Pro | Crumble | Digestive Health | Probiotic Formula | Amazon |
| Buff Clucks | Herb Supplement | Boosting Immunity | Calendula & Oregano Blend | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Purina Layena+ Omega 3 Formula
Purina Layena+ is a heavyweight champion in the layer feed world for good reason. Itâs a nutritionally complete pellet that simplifies flock management while actively boosting the nutritional profile of your eggs. Modern homesteaders need efficiency, and this bag delivers it without demanding a second mortgage.
This isnât just maintenance feed. The + formula is specifically designed to pack 250mg of Omega-3 per large egg, effectively turning your hens into gourmet producers. Made with Non-GMO ingredients and fortified with essential vitamins, it supports thick, sturdy eggshells and rich, deeply colored yolks. As a complete feed, it removes the guessworkâjust serve it in a clean feeder alongside fresh water and watch your flock thrive.
For the backyard keeper who wants a reliable, research-backed foundation for their laying flock, Purina Layena+ is a top-tier choice that balances cost and performance exceptionally well. It consistently earns praise from keepers who notice the difference in shell quality and egg production levels.
Why we love it
- Boosts beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids in every egg
- Made with Non-GMO ingredients for peace of mind
- Consistently produces strong shells and vibrant yolks
Good to know
- Pellet form may not suit all picky eaters at first
- Availability can sometimes fluctuate online
2. Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Layer Formula
If non-GMO and antibiotic-free feeding is non-negotiable for your homestead, Prairieâs Choice delivers exactly that without compromising on the nutrition your layers need. It speaks directly to the keeper who wants total transparency in their feed bag.
This crumble formula is tailored for hens 16-18 weeks and older, right when they are hitting their peak production phase. At a solid 16% protein, it provides the necessary energy for consistent laying. The crumble texture is excellent for hens who turn their beaks up at larger pellets, ensuring every bird gets her fill. Being gluten-free is an added bonus for keepers with sensitive flocks or those looking to simplify their feed ingredients.
Prairie’s Choice proves that clean, premium feed doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Itâs a wholesome, straightforward option that has a track record of restoring egg production in flocks that had previously stalled out.
Why we love it
- Verified Non-GMO with no added antibiotics or gluten
- Available in a crumble form that most hens love
- Multiple keepers report restored laying within days
Good to know
- Some selective hens may leave the whole corn pieces
- Priced slightly above standard conventional layer feeds
3. Scratch and Peck Whole Grain Layer Mash
Scratch and Peck takes the concept of ‘you are what your animals eat’ literally, offering a whole grain mash that is as close to nature as possible. Itâs for the keeper who values ingredient provenance above all else and prefers a more hands-on approach to feeding.
This USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified feed is completely soy-free and packs a solid 16% protein punch. The whole grain mash texture is a favorite among fermenting enthusiasts who know that soaking the feed unlocks extra nutrients and improves digestion for their hens. You can see every single identifiable ingredientâfrom the whole oats to the kelpâgiving you total visual transparency.
If your budget allows for the highest standard of organic nutrition, Scratch and Peck is an investment in the long-term vitality of your hybrid and heritage breed flocks. The quality speaks for itself when you notice the rich yolk color and the vitality of your birds.
Why we love it
- Full transparency with visible, identifiable whole grains
- Excellent structure for fermenting to reduce waste
- Dual certified USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified
Good to know
- Higher price point reflects premium certification standards
- Mash form can be dusty and powdery if not fermented
4. Manna Pro Layer Crumbles with Probiotics
Manna Pro is a trusted name in poultry, and their Layer Crumbles with Probiotics is a standout for keepers focused on digestive health. A healthy gut is the foundation of a productive hen, and this feed addresses that directly.
The 16% protein crumble form is designed for easy pecking and significantly reduces waste compared to mash. The star of the show is the inclusion of live probiotics which support gut health, leading to better nutrient absorption and steadier egg production. It’s also enriched with essential minerals for strong shell formation. Keepers specifically note that the feed smells fresh and appetizing, which encourages even the pickiest eaters to dig in.
Priced competitively and proudly made in the USA, this is a fantastic daily feed for hens who need a little extra digestive support or for keepers transitioning birds onto a new complete layer ration. Itâs a reliable, high-quality bag of feed that gets the job done.
Why we love it
- Added probiotics actively support optimal gut health
- Easy-to-eat crumble texture reduces sorting and waste
- Fresh, appetizing smell compared to some stale feeds
Good to know
- Bag size is smaller than some bulk conventional options
- Price per pound can be higher than generic store brands
5. Buff Clucks Herb Supplement
Buff Clucks offers a beautifully simple way to boost your flock’s wellness with the power of culinary-grade herbs. This isn’t a complete feed, but rather a targeted supplement that works wonders for immune support and environmental enrichment. Itâs a favorite among natural-minded keepers who want to avoid chemical additives in the coop.
This 12-ounce pouch packs a powerful punch with oregano, basil, garlic, rosemary, and calendula. The instructions are refreshingly simple: mix one bag into 30-50 pounds of your regular layer feed. The results reported by keepers are remarkableâshinier feathering, less stress during molting season, and even effective natural mite reduction when used in dust baths and nesting boxes. The blend smells incredibly fresh and aromatic.
For any flock keeper looking to add a layer of natural immune defense and a touch of herbal love to their daily routine, this handcrafted, USA-made product is a wonderful choice. Itâs a small addition that can make a very big difference in how your flock feels.
Why we love it
- Provides all-natural support for mite and pest control
- Boosts immune health, feather quality, and nesting calm
- Handcrafted in the USA with culinary-grade, Non-GMO herbs
Good to know
- Formulated as a supplement for use with complete feed
- Small pouch size reflects its concentrated potency
Safety & Care Tips
Calcium Management
Never mix layer feed with chick starter or flock maintenance feed. The high calcium level needed for strong shells in laying hens can damage the kidneys of young chicks or non-laying adult birds. Offer crushed oyster shell or limestone in a separate small feeder so your hens can instinctively regulate their own calcium intake based on their individual needs.
Feed Storage & Freshness
Store your chicken feed in a cool, dry place inside a sturdy, rodent-proof metal container. Stale, moldy, or infested feed can cause serious illness in your flock, including respiratory issues and digestive upset. Always check the mill date on the bag and try to use it within a month of opening to ensure peak nutritional freshness and palatability.
FAQ
Can I feed my laying chickens just scratch grains?
What is the best protein percentage for laying hen feed?
Do I need to give oyster shells if I use a complete layer feed?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most flock owners, the food for laying chickens winner is the Purina Layena+ because it perfectly balances complete nutrition with a proven boost in egg quality. If you prioritize certified organic ingredients, the Scratch and Peck Whole Grain Mash is an outstanding premium choice. And for those looking to add a targeted wellness boost to their existing routine, the Buff Clucks Herb Supplement offers remarkable natural benefits.