The Best Chicken Feed for Laying Hens
Laying hens need a complete layer feed with about 16–18% protein and extra calcium. Here are the best options on Amazon, from budget to organic.
Top Picks (At a Glance)
Quick links to the products we recommend in this guide. Prices shown on Amazon at click-through.
Purina Layena Pellets, 50 lb
16% protein, pellet, per the listing. Details below.
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Purina Layena Crumbles
16% protein, crumble, per the listing. Details below.
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Scratch and Peck Layer Pellets
16% protein, pellet, per the listing. Details below.
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Purina Organic Layer Crumbles
16% protein, crumble, per the listing. Details below.
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New Country Organics Pastured Perfect
17% protein, whole-grain mash (see listing), per the listing. Details below.
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Manna Pro Layer Pellets, 8 lb
16% protein, pellet (small bag), per the listing. Details below.
Check Price on Amazon →What laying hens need from their feed
- Protein: about 16–18%. Oregon State Extension says about 16%, Penn State 16–18%, NC State about 18%.
- Calcium for shells. Layer feed carries extra calcium (Oregon State: 3–4%), and extension services recommend offering oyster shell free-choice on the side.
- Feed first, treats second. Oregon State suggests treats and scratch stay around 10–15% of daily intake; NC State suggests no more than a quarter pound of grain per five hens per day.
Pellets and crumbles are the same feed in different shapes. Pellets waste less; crumbles suit birds that are switching from chick starter.
The best layer feeds
Best overall
Purina Layena Pellets, 50 lb
Purina Layena is a complete layer ration at 16% protein, and a 50-pound bag is the economical size for any flock over a few birds.
Why it made the list
- Complete layer ration
- Economical 50 lb bag
What to watch
- Conventional (not organic)
- Heavy to ship and carry
Best crumbles
Purina Layena Crumbles
The same Layena formula in crumble form, which pullets moving off chick starter often accept more readily.
Why it made the list
- Easy transition from starter crumbles
What to watch
- More waste than pellets in open feeders
Best non-GMO
Scratch and Peck Feeds Layer Pellets, 25 lb
Scratch and Peck makes non-GMO feeds; the listing says these layer pellets are for chickens and ducks. They hit the same 16% protein as mainstream feeds at a higher price per pound.
Why it made the list
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Suits mixed chicken and duck flocks
What to watch
- Costs more per pound
Best organic
Purina Non-GMO Organic Layer Crumbles
Purina's organic, non-GMO layer feed, for flocks kept for organic eggs.
Why it made the list
- Organic
- Complete ration
What to watch
- Compare the per-pound cost on Amazon
Highest protein
New Country Organics Pastured Perfect Layer Feed
New Country Organics' Pastured Perfect is a 17% protein layer feed. Check the listing for its organic certification and whether it is a mash or pellet.
Why it made the list
- Higher protein (17%)
What to watch
- Costs more than conventional layer feed
Best small bag
Manna Pro Layer Pellets, 8 lb
An 8-pound bag suits two or three hens, or anyone who wants to test a feed before committing to 50 pounds. Feed stays fresher in smaller bags too.
Why it made the list
- Small, fresh bag
What to watch
- Small bag: compare the per-pound cost with larger bags
Oyster shell: offer it separately
Oregon State and Penn State both recommend oyster shell free-choice in its own container, so each hen takes what she needs. One option: Manna Pro Crushed Oyster Shell.
Starter, grower, layer: when to switch
| Stage | Protein | When |
|---|---|---|
| Chick starter | 18–20% (Penn State, Oregon State) | Hatch to about 6–8 weeks |
| Grower | about 14–16% | From 6–8 weeks to about 18 weeks |
| Layer | 16–18% | At 18–20 weeks or the first egg, whichever comes first (Oregon State) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What percent protein do laying hens need?
About 16–18%, depending on the source: Oregon State says about 16%, Penn State 16–18% and NC State about 18%.
Pellets or crumbles?
Same nutrition. Pellets waste less; crumbles are easier for young layers moving off starter.
How much feed does a hen eat a day?
NC State Extension puts it at about a third of a pound.
Can I feed only scratch grains?
No. Scratch is a treat. Keep treats and scratch to roughly 10–15% of the diet so hens get complete nutrition from layer feed.
Sources
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