Best Grower Feed For Chickens – 2026 Reviews

Protein is the single most important nutrient in a grower feed. Look for a minimum of 16-18% crude protein. This protein fuels the incredible development happening during the “teenage” phase-building strong muscles, healthy organs, and that beautiful set of adult feathers. Too little protein, and growth stalls; too much (like a layer feed’s calcium) can actually harm their developing kidneys.

This is a big personal and philosophical choice. Organic feeds are certified to be free from synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs. They’re often corn and soy-free, using higher-quality grains. Non-GMO feeds ensure the ingredients aren’t genetically modified but may still be grown with conventional pesticides. Conventional feeds are typically the most affordable and effective but may contain ingredients some keepers prefer to limit. Consider your budget and your goals for your flock’s diet and your own peace of mind.

This decision is crucial. Medicated grower feeds contain Amprolium, a mild anticoccidial that helps prevent coccidiosis, a devastating parasitic disease common in young birds. It’s highly recommended for chicks raised on built-up litter (like in a brooder) or in crowded conditions. Non-medicated feeds are essential if you’re using a probiotic supplement or vaccinating for coccidiosis, as the medication can interfere. If your birds have ample clean space and sunshine, non-medicated may be a safe choice.

Mash is a finely ground texture. It’s great for fermentation (which boosts probiotics) but can be messy and dusty. Crumbles are broken-up pellets-the perfect Goldilocks size for young birds, easy to eat, and they create less waste. Pellets are compact cylinders that minimize waste the most but can sometimes be too large for smaller or younger growers. Watch your birds! Some flocks have strong texture preferences.

Look for a feed where the first ingredients are whole grains you recognize-wheat, peas, oats, barley. Be wary of long lists of unpronounceable additives or vague terms like “grain products.” Many quality feeds now proudly advertise being corn-free and soy-free, as these are common fillers that can be harder for some birds to digest and may dilute nutritional density.

Typically, you’ll switch from a starter feed (20-24% protein) to a grower feed around 8 weeks of age. Feed the grower ration until they approach point of lay, around 18-20 weeks. Then, you’ll make the final switch to a layer feed with added calcium. Always make feed transitions gradually over 7-10 days by mixing the old and new feed to avoid digestive upset.

Think of it like life-stage nutrition. Starter feed (0-8 weeks) is super high in protein (20-24%) for explosive early growth. Grower feed (8-20 weeks) has slightly less protein (16-18%) to support steady development of frame and feathers without overstressing organs. Layer feed (20+ weeks) has similar protein to grower but adds high levels of calcium (3-4%) specifically for strong eggshell production. Feeding layer feed too early can cause serious kidney damage in immature birds.

Absolutely not as a primary diet. Scratch grains (corn, wheat, etc.) and kitchen scraps are like chicken junk food-high in carbs and fun, but nutritionally incomplete. Growing chickens have very specific requirements for amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that only a formulated complete feed can provide in the right balance. Think of scraps and scratch as a occasional treat (no more than 10% of their diet), not the main course.

Yes, always. Chickens don’t have teeth. They need insoluble grit (small, hard stones like granite) in their gizzard to mechanically grind up their food, regardless of its form. If they’re eating anything besides commercial feed-even grass or treats-they need grit to digest it properly. Offer a separate dish of size-appropriate grit (chick, grower, or layer) free-choice.

Don’t panic! Chickens are creatures of habit. The key is a slow, gradual transition. Over 7-10 days, slowly increase the amount of new grower feed mixed with their old starter feed. Start with 25% new/75% old, then 50/50, then 75/25, until you’re at 100% grower. This gives their digestive systems time to adjust and prevents them from starving themselves because the new food looks or smells different.