Best Chicken Feed For Laying Eggs – 2026 Reviews

Let’s be honest. There’s nothing quite like the daily treasure hunt of checking the nesting boxes. But those perfect, strong-shelled eggs don’t just appear by magic-they start with what you put in the feeder. It took me years to realize that my hens’ productivity and vibrant health were directly linked to the feed I was giving them. Once I got it right, it was like flipping a switch. Suddenly, the yolks were richer, the shells stopped cracking, and my girls had that unmistakable pep in their step.

I’ve seen a lot of feeds come and go, from dusty, bland pellets to fancy (and frankly, confusing) grain blends. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why I dug into the data, sifted through piles of real chicken-keeper feedback, and compared the science behind the labels. We’re looking for more than just fillers; we’re looking for complete nutrition that supports egg production, shell strength, and overall flock vitality. From organic purists to budget-conscious keepers, I’ve found a top-tier feed for every type of flock.

Here’s the straight talk on the absolute best chicken feeds for laying hens in 2026, based on real-world performance and what your birds will actually thrive on.

⚠️ Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. Our ratings (out of 10) are editorial assessments based on product features, user feedback, and real-world testing. Purchasing through our links doesn’t affect your price but helps support our research.

Best Chicken Feed for Laying Eggs – 2026 Reviews

Best Choice
1
Scratch and Peck Feeds Whole Grain Layer Mash Chicken Feed in a 25 lb bag
SCRATCH AND PECK FEEDS

Scratch and Peck Feeds Whole Grain Layer Mash – Top-Tier Organic Nutrition

This is the feed that changed my standards. It’s not just organic; it’s a thoughtfully crafted whole grain mash that looks and smells like actual food. Chickens go absolutely nuts for it. The 16% protein from clean sources supports steady muscle and feather health, and the corn-free, soy-free formula is perfect for birds with sensitivities. I also love the flexibility-you can feed it dry or ferment it for a probiotic boost, which seriously cuts down on picky eating.

Corn-Free & Soy-FreeCertified OrganicWhole Grain Mash
9.8
Exceptional
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What I Loved:

The quality here is undeniable. Opening the bag, you see recognizable grains and seeds, not a uniform, processed powder. My hens don’t just eat it; they devour it with an enthusiasm I rarely see. The 16% protein level is spot-on for maintaining laying hens without pushing them into unnecessary weight gain. I also deeply appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability, from the North American-sourced grains right down to the compostable packaging. It’s a premium feed, but you can see, smell, and-most importantly-see the results in your flock’s health and egg quality.

The Not-So-Great:

The price point is a commitment, and a small number of keepers report their birds initially turning their beaks up at it, which can happen when switching from highly palatable, additive-laden feeds.

Bottom Line:

If you want to invest in the absolute best clean, organic nutrition for your laying hens and see a tangible difference in their vitality, this feed is worth every penny.

Best Value
2
CountryMax 16% Protein Layer Pellets in a 50 lb bag for chickens and ducks
COUNTRYMAX

CountryMax 16% Protein Layer Pellets – Reliable & Cost-Effective

For a workhorse feed that delivers consistent results without breaking the bank, CountryMax Layer Pellets are incredibly hard to beat. This is a no-nonsense, complete feed with a solid 16% protein profile and the added calcium laying hens need. The pellet form is fantastic because it drastically reduces waste-hens can’t pick out their favorite bits and leave the rest. It’s versatile, suitable for chickens, ducks, and game birds, making it perfect for mixed backyard flocks.

50lb Bag ValueWaste-Reducing PelletsFor Mixed Flocks
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

This feed is the definition of reliable. You get a massive 50-pound bag that lasts, and the uniform pellets mean every bite is nutritionally balanced. I’ve found it supports very consistent egg production with strong shells. It’s a straightforward formula without gimmicks, made in the USA, and trusted by a lot of small homesteaders. For the price per pound, the value is outstanding, especially if you have a larger flock to feed.

The Not-So-Great:

As a conventional pellet, it doesn’t have the ‘clean label’ appeal of organic, non-GMO feeds. Some extremely finicky birds might prefer crumbles or mash.

Bottom Line:

This is your go-to for dependable, high-value nutrition that keeps your hens laying well season after season.

Budget Pick
3
Country Heritage Chicken Layer Crumble 50lb bag for egg layers
COUNTRYMAX

Country Heritage Layer Crumble – Affordable Egg-Laying Fuel

When you need to feed a flock on a budget without sacrificing essential nutrition, this crumble from Country Heritage is a stellar find. It’s formulated specifically for hen egg laying production with 16% protein and a fortified blend of vitamins and minerals. The crumble form is often easier for some birds to eat than large pellets and can enhance overall consumption, ensuring even your more timid hens get their share.

16% Protein CrumbleFortified VitaminsEgg Laying Formula
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved:

For the price, this feed punches above its weight. It provides a solid nutritional foundation for egg production. The crumble texture is a hit with many of my birds, and it seems to digest easily. If your primary goal is to support a productive laying flock with a cost-effective, no-frills feed that gets the job done, this is an excellent choice. The 50-pound bag offers great longevity.

The Not-So-Great:

It’s a conventional feed, so it may contain GMO grains. The texture can sometimes lead to more dust or finer particles at the bottom of the bag compared to pellets.

Bottom Line:

A highly affordable and effective feed that delivers core egg-laying nutrition for budget-conscious flock owners.

None
4
Purina Layena Crumbles Chicken Feed for Laying Hens 50 lb bag
PURINA

Purina Layena – Trusted Brand Consistency

A household name for a reason, Purina Layena is the consistent performer many chicken keepers have relied on for years. This complete feed includes added marigold extract, which is believed to enhance yolk color, and Purina’s Oyster Strong System for shell strength. Available in both crumbles and pellets, it offers a balanced formula with prebiotics and probiotics to support digestive health, making it a very well-rounded choice.

Added Marigold ExtractOyster Strong SystemPrebiotics & Probiotics
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

You know exactly what you’re getting with Purina: proven consistency. The inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics is a smart touch for gut health, which is crucial for nutrient absorption. Many keepers swear by the vibrant orange yolks they get from the marigold extract. It’s a scientifically formulated feed from a company with deep roots in animal nutrition, and you can feel confident your birds are getting a complete diet.

The Not-So-Great:

As a mainstream feed, it’s not organic or free from common ingredients like corn. Some find the price has crept up compared to other value-oriented brands.

Bottom Line:

A reliable, science-backed feed from a trusted brand that consistently supports healthy laying hens and beautiful eggs.

None
5
New Country Organics Corn-Free Classic Layer Chicken Feed 25lb bag
NEW COUNTRY ORGANICS

New Country Organics Classic Layer – Premium Corn & Soy-Free

For those seeking an organic, corn-free, and soy-free diet, New Country Organics delivers a high-performance option. With a robust 17% protein from certified organic grains, this feed is designed to keep hens cooler in hot weather thanks to its low-starch formula. It’s enriched with probiotics and kelp to promote digestion and nutrient-packed eggs, making it a comprehensive, clean-ingredient choice for health-focused flock owners.

17% High ProteinCorn & Soy FreeWith Probiotics & Kelp
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The high protein content is fantastic for supporting active, laying hens. I love that it’s another dedicated corn and soy-free option, which is great for birds with allergies or for keepers wanting to avoid those common fillers. The inclusion of kelp adds a nice boost of trace minerals. Many chickens find this feed very palatable, and the quality of eggs produced is often reported as excellent.

The Not-So-Great:

There have been some reports of bags being dustier than ideal, and at this premium price point, that consistency is important. It’s a significant investment per pound.

Bottom Line:

A top-shelf organic, high-protein feed perfect for keepers who want to avoid corn and soy without compromising on nutritional density.

None
6
Manna Pro 16% Protein Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed 8 lb bag
MANNA PRO

Manna Pro Layer Crumbles – Nutritious & Easy to Digest

Manna Pro’s Layer Crumbles are a fantastic choice for smaller flocks or for those who prefer to buy feed in more manageable quantities. This complete crumble feed is formulated with 16% protein, probiotics for digestive health, and added calcium for strong eggshells. It’s designed for optimal digestibility, making it easy for hens to absorb all the key vitamins and minerals they need for steady production.

With ProbioticsAdded CalciumEasy-Digest Crumble
8.7
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The 8-pound bag size is perfect for people with just a few hens, as it stays fresh. The crumble form is excellent for all ages and encourages good consumption. I appreciate that Manna Pro is a brand dedicated to poultry, and their inclusion of probiotics is a thoughtful feature for maintaining a healthy gut biome, which is so important for overall health and egg production.

The Not-So-Great:

The cost per pound is higher than bulk 50lb bags, so it’s less economical for large flocks. A few users have mentioned variability in the crumbliness, with some bags being dustier than others.

Bottom Line:

An excellent, nutrient-rich crumble feed in a convenient small-bag size, ideal for smaller backyard flocks.

None
7
Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Whole Grain Layer Blend 40lb bag with herbs
WHOLESOME HARVEST

Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Layer Blend – Whole Grain with Herbs

Wholesome Harvest takes a holistic approach with this Non-GMO Whole Grain Layer Blend. It’s more than just feed; it includes essential oils, herbs, and flax for an omega-3 boost. The mix contains oyster shells for calcium and probiotics for digestion. This granular, whole-grain feed is designed to encourage natural foraging behavior while providing complete nutrition for both chickens and ducks.

With Herbs & OilsOmega-3 Flax BoostNon-GMO Whole Grain
8.4
Good
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What I Loved:

The inclusion of herbs and essential oils is unique and aims to support overall flock wellness in a natural way. I love that it has flaxseed to increase the omega-3 content in the eggs-a real health bonus. The texture, with recognizable grains and little dust, is very appealing and promotes natural pecking and foraging activity, which is great for hen happiness.

The Not-So-Great:

This is one of the more expensive feeds on the market, and the value proposition is mixed-some flocks thrive on it, while others see no difference in production. Palatability can be flock-dependent.

Bottom Line:

A unique, whole-food blend with added herbs and omega-3s for keepers interested in a holistic, non-GMO approach to flock nutrition.

None
8
New Country Organics Pastured Perfect Layer Feed 40 lb bag
NEW COUNTRY ORGANICS

New Country Organics Pastured Perfect – For Free-Range Flocks

Marketed as the ideal complement for pastured or free-range hens, this feed from New Country Organics is designed to round out the diet of birds that forage. It’s corn-free, soy-free, and certified organic with a 17% protein level to support hens that are active and burning more calories. It’s formulated for hens 16 weeks and older, providing a natural protein boost from wholesome ingredients.

For Pastured Hens17% ProteinOrganic & Non-GMO
8.2
Good
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What I Loved:

The concept is perfect for my setup: a high-protein, clean-ingredient feed to supplement what my girls find while free-ranging. It ensures they get all their essential nutrients even on days when the bugs and greens are scarce. The protein level is appropriately high for active birds, and the commitment to organic, non-GMO ingredients is solid.

The Not-So-Great:

This product has had significant quality control reports, with many customers receiving bags that are mostly powder and dust, which is unacceptable at this premium price. This inconsistency is a major drawback.

Bottom Line:

A great concept for supplementing foraging flocks, but potential quality issues mean you should purchase with caution until consistency improves.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

You’ve probably read a dozen lists that just slap popular feeds in order. We do things differently. To find the genuinely best chicken feed for laying eggs, we started with a pool of over 10 top-selling and highly-rated feeds. Our ranking isn’t a guess-it’s a data-driven score based on a 70/30 split between real-world performance and innovative features.

70% of the score comes from Purchase Likelihood. We asked: Does the feed actually match a laying hen’s needs (25%)? What’s the consensus in real user feedback-do chickens eat it and thrive (20%)? Is the price reasonable for what you get (15%)? And is the product information clear and complete (10%)?

The remaining 30% rewards Feature Highlights. We looked for unique technical advantages (15%), like probiotic blends or corn-free formulas, and competitive differentiation (15%) that makes a feed stand out, such as sustainable packaging or inclusion of omega-3 boosters.

For example, our top-rated Scratch and Peck feed scored a 9.8/10 because it excels in every performance category and offers clear organic, whole-food differentiation. Compare that to our solid Budget Pick, which scored an 8.5. It’s an excellent, no-frills feed that nails the fundamentals at a great price, but it doesn’t have those premium differentiators. That 1.3-point difference reflects the trade-off between top-tier organic ingredients and exceptional budget-friendly value.

Our goal is to cut through the marketing and show you which feeds perform, so you can choose based on what matters most for your flock and your wallet.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Chicken Feed for Egg Production

1. Protein: The Egg Production Engine

Protein is the building block for… well, everything. For laying hens, a 16-18% protein level is the sweet spot. This supports not just egg production, but also muscle maintenance, feather regrowth (especially important during molting), and overall energy. Feeds with less than 16% might not sustain optimal laying, especially for active or free-range birds. Higher protein (like 20% starter/grower feed) is for chicks, not layers, and can lead to health issues if fed long-term.

2. Calcium: The Shell Maker

Every eggshell is a calcium fortress. If your hens don’t get enough from their feed, they’ll leach it from their own bones, weakening them and leading to thin, brittle shells. A good layer feed has added calcium, often listed as calcium carbonate or oyster shell. Many keepers still offer a separate side dish of crushed oyster shell, allowing hens to self-regulate their intake as needed.

3. Form: Pellets, Crumbles, or Mash?

Pellets are compressed and uniform. Pros: Less waste (hens can’t pick through them), easy to handle. Cons: Some birds, especially bantams or older hens, may find them too hard. Crumbles are broken-up pellets. Pros: Easier to eat for all sizes, often more palatable. Cons: Can create more fine dust and potential waste. Mash is a fine, unprocessed powder. Pros: Most natural state, perfect for fermenting. Cons: Can be very messy and is susceptible to the most waste from selective eating.

4. Organic, Non-GMO, Corn-Free & Soy-Free: What's the Deal?

This is about your philosophy and your flock’s health. Organic and Non-GMO feeds avoid synthetic pesticides and genetically modified grains. Corn-Free and Soy-Free formulas are popular because corn is a high-starch filler and soy can be an allergen for some birds. These feeds often use alternative grains like peas, barley, or wheat. They’re typically more expensive but can be worth it for birds with sensitivities or for keepers wanting a ‘cleaner’ diet.

5. Other Beneficial Additives

Look for value-added ingredients that support health. Probiotics and Prebiotics promote a healthy gut, crucial for digestion and immune function. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (from flaxseed) enrich the eggs you eat. Marigold Extract is often added to deepen yolk color. While not essential, these can be signs of a thoughtfully formulated feed.

6. Reading the Bag: A Quick Checklist

Before you buy, check the tag: 1) Is it a “Complete Feed” for laying hens? 2) What’s the Guaranteed Analysis (Protein, Fat, Fiber, Calcium)? 3) Check the Ingredient List-the first few items are the main components. 4) Note the Age Range (should be for layers, usually 18+ weeks).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much feed does a laying hen eat per day?

On average, a standard-sized laying hen will eat about 1/4 to 1/3 of a pound (roughly 4-5 ounces) of feed per day. This can vary dramatically based on breed, age, weather (they eat more in cold weather to stay warm), and whether they free-range (they’ll eat less feed if they find plenty of bugs and greens). The best practice is to offer feed free-choice, meaning it’s always available in their feeder so they can eat what they need, when they need it.

2. Can I switch my chickens' feed brand suddenly?

Absolutely not. A sudden switch can cause digestive upset, stress, and a drop in egg production. Always transition gradually over 7-10 days. Start by mixing 25% of the new feed with 75% of the old feed for a few days. Then go to a 50/50 mix, then 75% new/25% old, before finally switching completely to the new feed. This gives their gut microbes time to adjust.

3. Do I still need to offer grit if I'm feeding crumbles or pellets?

Yes, you do. Chickens don’t have teeth. They need insoluble grit (small, hard stones or granite) in their gizzard to mechanically grind down their food, regardless of its form. If they free-range, they may pick up enough natural grit. For confined birds, you must provide it free-choice in a separate dish. Don’t confuse grit with oyster shell; oyster shell is a calcium supplement that dissolves.

4. What's the difference between 'Complete Feed' and 'Supplement'?

This is crucial. A “Complete Feed” is formulated to provide 100% of the daily nutritional requirements for a laying hen. It contains the right balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, and calcium. You should not dilute it with lots of other grains (like scratch), as that unbalances the diet. Supplements or “Treats” (like mealworms, scratch grains, vegetables) are for enrichment and should make up no more than 10% of their overall daily intake. Think of complete feed as their main course and supplements as dessert.

5. How should I store chicken feed to keep it fresh?

Proper storage is key to preventing waste and keeping feed nutritious. Store bags in a cool, dry, and rodent-proof container. Metal trash cans with tight-sealing lids are ideal. Heat and moisture are the enemies of feed-they can cause mold growth or make fats go rancid. Never store feed directly on a concrete floor, as moisture can wick up. Buy only what you’ll use within a few months for maximum freshness.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right feed is the single most impactful decision you make for your flock’s health and productivity. After testing and comparing the top contenders, the winner is clear: for keepers who want to invest in superior, clean nutrition and see a visible difference in their hens, Scratch and Peck Feeds Whole Grain Layer Mash is in a league of its own. If you need unbeatable value for a reliable, productive flock, the CountryMax Layer Pellets deliver exceptional performance per dollar. And for those on a tight budget, the Country Heritage Layer Crumble proves you don’t have to sacrifice core egg-laying nutrition. No matter your choice, feeding a quality, complete layer feed is the surest path to a happy, healthy flock and a steady supply of perfect eggs.

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