When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Feed For Laying Hens (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the best feed for laying hens, it’s important to consider a few factors before making your purchase. In order to provide your hens with the right nutrition and ensure they are laying strong, healthy eggs, you’ll want to choose a feed that meets their specific needs.

Firstly, it’s crucial to look for a feed that is specifically formulated for laying hens. These feeds have a higher level of protein, as well as essential vitamins and minerals that are necessary for healthy egg production. You’ll also want to consider the age of your hens, as different feeds may be more appropriate for younger or older birds.

Additionally, it’s worth researching the brand and reviews of the feed you’re considering. Look for brands that have a good reputation and positive customer feedback, as well as feeds that have been approved by organizations such as the American Poultry Association.

Are you wondering why your hens aren’t laying as many eggs as they used to? Do you want to ensure the eggs your hens lay are as nutritious as possible? Choosing the right feed for your laying hens is crucial to their health and egg production. In this article, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider before making your purchase and provide tips on finding the best feed for your feathered friends.

10 Best Feed For Laying Hens

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal as a supplement for laying hens to enhance their egg-laying abilities.
2
This product is ideal for feeding laying hens or ducks a non-GMO whole grain diet high in protein.
3
Product is ideal for providing complete nutrition to layer hens in crumbled form, coming in a 25 lb bag.
4
Purina Layena+ is ideal for providing complete nutrition and Omega-3 benefits to layer hens.
5
The product is ideal for feeding chickens that produce eggs.
6
Ideal for feeding chickens that require high protein and calcium levels to support egg-laying.
7
Ideal for providing a source of calcium for plants, improving soil texture and structure, and deterring pests.
8
This product is ideal for feeding chickens, ducks, turkeys, wild birds, turtles, and quails with a calcium-rich treat.
9
This product is ideal for feeding chickens and wild birds as a treat due to its dried mealworms content.
10
The product is ideal for providing complete nutrition to layer hens.
This product is ideal as a supplement for laying hens to enhance their egg-laying abilities.
This product is ideal for feeding laying hens or ducks a non-GMO whole grain diet high in protein.
Product is ideal for providing complete nutrition to layer hens in crumbled form, coming in a 25 lb bag.
Purina Layena+ is ideal for providing complete nutrition and Omega-3 benefits to layer hens.
The product is ideal for feeding chickens that produce eggs.
Ideal for feeding chickens that require high protein and calcium levels to support egg-laying.
Ideal for providing a source of calcium for plants, improving soil texture and structure, and deterring pests.
This product is ideal for feeding chickens, ducks, turkeys, wild birds, turtles, and quails with a calcium-rich treat.
This product is ideal for feeding chickens and wild birds as a treat due to its dried mealworms content.
The product is ideal for providing complete nutrition to layer hens.

1. Omega Egg Chicken Feed: 5lbs.

Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker is a specially designed supplement to support laying hens. It is formulated with a combination of ingredients to promote optimal digestion and increase the nutritional value of the eggs.

This supplement is rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which are essential for the overall health of the chickens. Omega-3 Fatty Acids also help in creating healthy and nutritious eggs.

Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker contains direct-fed microbials that aid in digestion and support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. This, in turn, helps the hens to absorb essential nutrients from their food.

The unique ingredient combination in Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker supports the production of rich-colored egg yolks, which are an indication of healthy and nutritious eggs.

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker ensures that your hens are getting the necessary nutrients to lay healthy and hearty eggs.

Pros

  • Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids to promote overall health.
  • Supports optimal digestion with direct-fed microbials.
  • Unique ingredient combination promotes rich-colored egg yolks.
  • Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals for healthy and hearty eggs.

2. Homestead Harvest Non-Gmo Whole Grain Layer Blend 16% For Laying Hens Or Ducks 40lb

Ernst Grain & Livestock presents its premium feed made from a wholesome blend of Non-GMO grains with no byproducts. The 7th generation family farm ensures that the feed is complete and fortified with essential minerals, vitamins, probiotics, kelp, omega-3s, and other natural supplements required for the healthy growth of your flock. The feed contains oyster shells, diatomaceous earth, and a diverse mix of essential oils & herbs, making it the perfect choice for your feathered friends.

The carefully crafted formula is designed to provide complete nutrition and promote healthy digestion in your birds. It is a perfect blend of quality grains and natural supplements, which ensures that your flock receives all the necessary nutrients they need to maintain good health. The feed is free from any harmful chemicals, additives, or artificial flavors, making it a safe and healthy choice for your birds. With this premium feed, you can confidently feed your flock and watch them grow healthy and strong.

Ernst Grain & Livestock's premium feed is the perfect choice for any bird enthusiast who is looking for a high-quality, all-natural feed for their flock. With its premium quality, complete nutrition, and natural supplements, this feed is sure to keep your birds happy and healthy.

Pros

  • Made from a wholesome blend of Non-GMO grains with no byproducts
  • Complete ration fortified with minerals, vitamins, probiotics, kelp, omega 3's, and other natural supplements
  • Contains oyster shells, diatomaceous earth, and a diverse mix of essential oils & herbs
  • Promotes healthy digestion and provides complete nutrition to your birds
  • Free from any harmful chemicals, additives, or artificial flavors

3. Purina Layena | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed Crumbles | 25 Pound (25 Lb) Bag

These eggs are produced by hens that are fed with a special diet to provide a high level of xanthophyll, a coloring agent derived from marigolds. As a result, the egg yolks are rich yellow in color. Additionally, the diet includes calcium, manganese, and trace minerals that contribute to the strength of the eggshells. The feed is also enhanced with essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine, which are necessary for the birds to produce plenty of wholesome and delicious eggs. Moreover, these amino acids promote beautiful feathering in the birds.

The special diet also includes key levels of vitamins A, D, and E, which support strong reproduction and overall health. Vitamin A, in particular, helps the birds grow into healthy adult birds. The eggs are also enriched with prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast, which support immune and digestive health of the birds.

Pros

  • High level of xanthophyll for rich yellow yolks
  • Special diet includes calcium, manganese, and trace minerals for strong eggshells
  • Essential amino acids enhance the flavor and nutrient content of the eggs
  • Promotes beautiful feathering in the birds
  • Key levels of vitamins A, D, and E support strong reproduction and overall health of the birds
  • Enriched with prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast to support immune and digestive health of the birds

4. Purina Layena+ | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed | Omega 3 Formula – 40 Pound (40 Lb) Bag

This chicken feed is specially formulated to provide essential nutrients to hens that produce high-quality eggs. The feed is enriched with egg nutrition, which is designed to produce large eggs. The eggs contain 250 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, which is five times more than a traditional, store-bought large egg that contains 50 mg of omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, the feed contains marigold extract that helps maintain brightly colored yolks. The feed is also rich in 16% protein and 3.50% calcium, which are essential for maintaining hen health and supporting consistent egg production. Moreover, the feed is enhanced with essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine that help produce wholesome eggs and beautiful feathering. Lastly, the feed is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics that promote immune and digestive health in chickens.

If you want to produce high-quality eggs that are rich in nutrients, this chicken feed is an excellent choice. It contains all the essential nutrients that your hens need to lay healthy and nutritious eggs. The feed is also easy to digest and promotes a healthy digestive system in chickens.

Overall, this chicken feed is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to produce high-quality eggs that are rich in nutrients and taste. It is specially formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of hens and promote healthy egg production.

Pros

  • Enriched with egg nutrition to produce large eggs with high omega-3 fatty acids
  • Contains marigold extract that helps maintain brightly colored yolks
  • Rich in 16% protein and 3.50% calcium, essential for maintaining hen health and consistent egg production
  • Enhanced with essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine that help produce wholesome eggs and beautiful feathering
  • Fortified with prebiotics and probiotics that promote immune and digestive health in chickens
  • Easy to digest and promotes a healthy digestive system in chickens

5. Countrymax Hen Egg Layer Pellet 16% Chicken Feed 50 Pounds

Provide your laying hens with the essential nutrients they need with this complete and balanced diet. This layer feed is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional requirements of laying hens, providing them with the right amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals that are necessary for healthy growth and egg production.

With a protein content of 16%, this feed is rich in high-quality protein that supports the development of strong muscles and healthy tissues. The vitamins and minerals are carefully selected to promote overall health, boost the immune system, and enhance egg production.

This complete layer feed is designed to be the sole ration for your hens, so there is no need for additional supplementation. It can be fed to hens beginning at 16 weeks of age and is suitable for all breeds of laying hens.

This layer feed is proudly made in the USA and has a guaranteed analysis of 16% protein, 2.5% fat, and 7% fiber. Give your hens the nutrition they need for a healthy and productive life with this complete and balanced layer feed.

Pros

  • Complete and balanced nutrition for laying hens
  • High protein content supports muscle development and healthy tissues
  • Fortified with vitamins and minerals to enhance overall health and egg production
  • No need for supplementation
  • Suitable for all breeds of laying hens
  • Proudly made in the USA

Cons

  • – None

6. Eggland's Best All Natural 17% Layer Crumbles Chicken Food, 40 Lbs.

Experience consistently plumper eggs and more vibrantly colored yolks with this amazing product. Not only that, but it also has 25% less saturated fat in its eggs compared to regular ones. The eggshells are also stronger, which means less breakage and waste. Not only are these eggs delicious, they are also packed with immunity-boosting nutrients such as prebiotics, probiotics, Vitamins D & E, and lutein. Additionally, they help maintain eye health due to higher levels of Vitamin A. This product is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier and tastier alternative to regular eggs.

This product is perfect for anyone who is health-conscious and wants to incorporate more nutrients into their diet. The eggs are not only delicious, but they are also packed with immunity-boosting nutrients and help maintain eye health. The eggshells are also stronger, which means less breakage and waste. If you want consistently plumper eggs and more vibrantly colored yolks, this is the product for you!

Pros

  • Consistently plumper eggs
  • More vibrantly colored yolks
  • 25% less saturated fat
  • Stronger egg shells
  • High levels of prebiotics, probiotics, Vitamins D & E, and lutein
  • Helps maintain eye health

7. Pure Eggshells Finely Ground Egg Shells (1 Pound), White

This product is made of 100% egg shells that have been ground into a fine powder to make it easy to handle and apply. The egg shells are carefully sourced and processed to ensure that they are of the highest quality and purity.

The egg shell powder can be used for a variety of purposes, including gardening, skincare, and pet care. It is a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers, exfoliants, and pest control products.

The egg shell powder is rich in calcium and other minerals that are beneficial for plants, animals, and humans. It can help to improve soil quality, boost plant growth and health, and provide essential nutrients to pets and livestock.

The egg shell powder is easy to use and can be mixed with water or other liquids to create a paste or solution. It can also be added to food or used as a supplement to help maintain healthy bones and teeth.

Overall, this product is a versatile and eco-friendly solution that can benefit many aspects of daily life. Its natural composition and high nutritional value make it a great choice for anyone looking to live a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle.

Pros

  • Made of 100% egg shells
  • Ground for easy handling and application
  • Versatile and eco-friendly
  • Rich in calcium and other minerals
  • Can be used for gardening, skincare, and pet care

8. Flygrubs: The Ultimate Nutrient-Packed Chicken Treat

Flygrubs are an excellent source of nutrients for chickens, ducks, bluebirds, turtles, fish, and hamsters. These black soldier fly larvae grubbies have more essential nutrients than mealworms. They contain 85 times more calcium than dried mealworms, 36-42% protein, 25-30% healthy fat, phosphorus, fiber, lysine & dietary fat.

To encourage natural feeding behavior, simply scatter Flygrubs on the ground. Your girls will love them. The grubs are much easier to handle than live mealworms and superior to freeze-dried mealworms for birds. Flygrubs come in a sturdy box with a resealable bag that keeps the dried worms for chicken in pristine condition.

Flygrubs are an affordable black soldier fly larvae treat that promotes stronger eggshells, healthier feather production, and helps hens regain normal energy levels and egg production. Your flock will come running for organic chicken food for laying hens, or you can get your money back. No questions asked!

Pros

  • Contains essential nutrients that are beneficial for the overall health of chickens and other animals
  • Easy to handle and store
  • Promotes stronger eggshells and healthier feather production
  • Affordable and effective as a treat for chickens and other animals
  • Money-back guarantee

9. Mbtp Bulk Dried Mealworms – Treats For Chickens & Wild Birds (2 Lbs)

These mealworms are the perfect all-natural treat for your pets! They are non-GMO and do not contain any additives, preservatives, or fillers. The mealworms are sourced from the highest quality suppliers and are raised on a 100% vegetarian diet, ensuring that your pets are getting the best of the best. They are protein-packed, providing a high protein boost that is perfect for all types of pets. Whether you have chickens, ducks, wild birds, reptiles, turtles, fish, hamsters, hedgehogs, or any other type of pet, they will love these mealworms.

Not only are these mealworms delicious and nutritious, but they are also pet-approved. Your pets will love the taste and texture of these mealworms, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. So if you're looking for a healthy and natural snack for your pets, look no further than these premium mealworms!

Pros

  • 100% all-natural
  • Non-GMO and no additives, preservatives, or fillers
  • Raised on a 100% vegetarian diet
  • High in protein
  • Loved by a variety of pets

10. Purina Layena | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed Pellets | 25 Pound (25 Lb) Bag

The poultry feed is enriched with a combination of marigold extract, essential amino acids, trace minerals, and vitamins that provide a complete and balanced diet to the birds. The high level of xanthophyll obtained from marigold extract helps to enhance the color of egg yolks, making them deeper yellow. The feed contains calcium, manganese, and trace minerals that promote the formation of strong eggshells. Additionally, the feed is enhanced with lysine and methionine, two essential amino acids that birds need to produce plenty of wholesome and delicious eggs. Furthermore, the poultry feed promotes beautiful feathering. The feed has key levels of Vitamin A, D, and E that help to maintain strong reproduction and overall health. The high level of Vitamin A aids in the growth of healthy adult birds. The prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast in the feed support immune and digestive health of the birds.

Pros

  • High level of xanthophyll from marigold extract enhances egg yolk color
  • Calcium, manganese and trace minerals promote strong eggshells
  • Essential amino acids like lysine and methionine help birds produce wholesome and delicious eggs
  • Key levels of Vitamin A, D, and E maintain strong reproduction and overall health
  • Prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast support immune and digestive health
  • Promotes beautiful feathering

Best Feed For Laying Hens FAQs

How can the nutritional value of a feed for laying hens be optimized for egg production?

To optimize the nutritional value of a feed for laying hens, it is important to understand the specific nutrient requirements of the birds at each stage of egg production. A balanced and complete feed should contain the necessary levels of protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for the birds' health and egg production.

Protein is essential for egg production, and laying hens require a high-quality protein source such as soybean meal or fishmeal. Energy is also important, and the feed should contain a balance of carbohydrates and fats to meet the bird's energy requirements.

Vitamins and minerals are crucial for the bird's overall health and egg production. A well-formulated feed should contain adequate levels of vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

In addition to a balanced feed, it is also important to provide clean water and a clean environment for the birds. Ensuring the birds have access to fresh air, adequate space, and natural light can also improve egg production.

Overall, optimizing the nutritional value of a feed for laying hens requires careful attention to the bird's specific nutrient requirements and a well-formulated feed that meets those requirements.

How does the age of the hen affect the composition of the feed?

The age of the hen has a significant impact on the composition of their feed. This is because hens have different nutritional requirements at different stages of their life cycle. For instance, young hens require more protein and calcium to support growth and development, while older hens need less protein but more calcium to support egg production.

As hens age, their ability to absorb nutrients from their feed decreases, which makes it necessary to adjust the feed composition accordingly. Older hens also tend to consume less feed than younger ones, which means that their diet must be more nutrient-dense.

Additionally, the type of feed given to hens changes as they age. Starter feed is used for chicks, while grower feed is given to adolescent hens. Adult hens are fed layer feed, which is formulated to provide the appropriate nutrients for egg production.

In conclusion, the age of the hen is a critical factor in determining the composition of their feed. Proper nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of hens, and farmers must adjust their diets accordingly as they age.

What are the benefits of including calcium in a feed for laying hens?

Calcium is an essential mineral for laying hens as it plays a crucial role in the production of strong eggshells. Including calcium in their feed can help improve the overall health and productivity of the birds.

One of the main benefits of including calcium in the feed of laying hens is that it helps to maintain the structural integrity of eggshells. Without sufficient calcium, eggshells can become thin and brittle, which can lead to egg breakage and lower production rates. By providing a balanced diet with adequate calcium levels, farmers can ensure that their hens produce high-quality eggs with strong shells that are less likely to break during handling and transport.

Another benefit of calcium supplementation in the diet of laying hens is that it can improve bone health. Hens that do not receive enough calcium may suffer from weakened bones, which can lead to injuries and decreased egg production. Providing a diet with adequate calcium levels can help to prevent these issues and ensure that the birds remain healthy and productive.

In summary, including calcium in the feed of laying hens is essential for their overall health and productivity. By providing a balanced diet with adequate calcium levels, farmers can ensure that their birds produce high-quality eggs with strong shells and maintain good bone health.

What are the essential nutrients that should be included in a feed for laying hens?

Laying hens require a balanced diet that contains essential nutrients to ensure optimal health and egg production. The essential nutrients that should be included in a feed for laying hens are protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.

Protein is crucial for egg production and should be included in the feed in the form of soybean meal, fish meal or other protein-rich sources. Carbohydrates provide energy and can be obtained from corn, wheat, and barley. Fats are important for maintaining healthy feathers and can be found in vegetable oils, fish oils, and animal fats.

Vitamins and minerals are required in small quantities but are essential for maintaining good health and egg production. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for eggshell formation, and these nutrients can be obtained from oyster shells, limestone, and bone meal. Vitamins such as A, D, E, and K are important for maintaining good health and egg production.

Finally, water is a crucial nutrient that should be provided at all times to ensure proper hydration and egg production. Clean, fresh water should be provided daily to the laying hens.

In conclusion, a balanced feed that contains essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining good health and maximizing egg production in laying hens.

What is the ideal protein content for a feed for laying hens?

The ideal protein content for a feed for laying hens varies depending on the age and production stage of the bird. Generally, a laying hen requires a higher protein content feed compared to a growing chick or a broiler. A laying hen requires around 16% to 18% protein in its feed to maintain its egg production and overall health.

However, it is crucial to note that the protein content should not be the only factor to consider when formulating a feed for laying hens. Other factors such as the source and quality of protein, energy content, minerals, and vitamins should also be taken into account to ensure a balanced and complete diet for the bird.

It is recommended to consult a poultry nutritionist or veterinarian to determine the exact protein content and other nutrient requirements for a specific flock of laying hens to achieve optimal egg production and health.

Leave a Comment