Choosing the right feed is essential for reliable egg production, healthy plumage, and overall flock wellness. The following selections emphasize 16% protein or near-equivalent formulas, probiotic benefits, and clean ingredient decks to support laying hens. Each option below is designed for backyard flocks and is widely available through Amazon. The table summarizes key notes to help you compare quickly.
| Product | Type | Protein | Notable Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manna Pro Chicken Feed, 16% Crumbles | Crumbles | 16% | Easy digestion; probiotic benefits |
| Manna Pro Layer Pellets, 16% Protein | Pellets | 16% | Omega-3 option; probiotic formula |
| New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Feed | Pellets | 17% | Corn-free, soy-free; probiotics and kelp |
| Purina Layena | Crumbles | High protein blend | Balanced amino acids; vitamin enrichment |
| Scratch and Peck Feeds Layer Mash | Mash | 16% | Corn-free and soy-free; organic |
Note: Each product prioritizes quality ingredients and digestive health to support steady egg production. Availability may vary by region and retailer.
Manna Pro Chicken Feed, 16% Crumbles
Contains complete nutrition designed for laying hens, supporting egg production, healthy feathers, and overall wellness. The 16% protein level promotes strong eggshell formation and active birds. The crumbled form offers easy digestion and reduces waste, assisting nutrient absorption and steady production in backyard flocks.
Manna Pro Layer Pellets, 16% Protein
Provides a complete layer feed with 16% protein and added probiotics to support digestion and nutrient absorption. This product is designed to promote consistent egg laying and healthy shells. The formula emphasizes calcium support and overall vitality, with attention to natural, balanced nutrition without antibiotics or artificial colors in some variants.
New Country Organics Corn-Free Layer Feed
A corn-free, soy-free, certified organic and non-GMO option with 17% protein. The blend emphasizes heat tolerance with a low-starch profile, includes probiotics and kelp for digestion and shell quality, and aims to deliver robust egg production while maintaining flock health in varied climates.
Purina Layena
Purina Layena is a nutritionally complete layer feed designed to promote rich yolks and strong shells. It emphasizes essential amino acids, calcium, manganese, and trace minerals to support egg production, feathering, and overall hen health. The formula targets robust, colorful yolks and steady laying cycles while avoiding unnecessary additives in some formulations.
Scratch and Peck Feeds Whole Grain Layer Mash
A 16% protein, corn-free and soy-free option, certified organic and non-GMO Project Verified. This mash aims to support rapid growth, strong bones, and vibrant feathers while delivering clean nutrition from organic grains and sustainable ingredients. The product also offers versatility in feeding methods to accommodate different flock management styles.
Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker
Supplement designed to support laying hens with a focus on Omega-3 fatty acids, fortified vitamins, and minerals. It aids digestion through direct-fed microbials and promotes healthier, more nutrient-dense eggs with improved yolk color. This option complements base feed to optimize egg quality and hen vitality.
Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Layer Blend
Non-GMO, whole grain layer blend with 16% protein and added essential oils, herbs, probiotics, oystershells, minerals, and omega-3 components. This blend targets strong shells, digestive health, and a nutrient-rich laying cycle while offering natural ingredients that support overall flock wellness.
Purina Layena + High Protein Layer Feed
High-protein layer feed with a natural bug component included in the pellet. This option satisfies natural foraging tendencies and provides a balanced nutrient profile designed to sustain laying performance and health, while supporting yolk development and plumage condition.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Protein level: Most laying hen formulas target 16–17% protein. Adjust based on age, climate, and production goals; higher protein can support molt recovery but may not always improve yield if other nutrients lag.
- Ingredient quality: Corn-free or soy-free options can reduce allergen exposure and digestive stress for sensitive flocks. Organic and non-GMO certifications are important for some buyers.
- Digestive health: Probiotics, prebiotics, and kelp can enhance gut health and nutrient absorption, contributing to steady egg production and shell quality.
- Calcium and shell strength: Look for calcium sources (lime, oyster shell) and minerals like manganese and zinc to improve shell integrity and egg color.
- Feeding form: Crumbles, pellets, and mash each have pros and cons. Crumbles reduce waste, pellets support consistent intake, and mash offers versatility for unique feeding setups or homemade toppers.
- Additives and antibiotics: Prefer options that avoid antibiotics and artificial colors/flavors if you aim for a more natural feed profile.
- Diet variety: Some blends include omega-3s, probiotics, or kelp for enhanced yolk color, digestion, and overall health. Combining base feed with fortified supplements can tailor nutrition to your flock.
- Climate considerations: In hot weather, high-protein, lower-starch formulas can help prevent overheating and maintain consistent laying.
When selecting feed, consider your flock’s age, climate, and any sensitivities to ingredients. Regional availability, flock size, and waste management practices also influence the best choice for reliable egg production and healthy hens.