How to Make Organic Homemade Chicken Feed: A Complete Guide to Healthier Hens & Better Eggs

You got backyard chickens for a reason.

Maybe it was the promise of fresh eggs every morning—eggs with deep orange yolks and rich flavor you can’t find in a grocery store.

Maybe it was the satisfaction of self-sufficiency, of knowing exactly where your food comes from.

Or maybe you just love the birds themselves—their quirky personalities, their enthusiastic scratching, the peaceful rhythm they bring to your backyard.

But here’s the thing: If you care about what goes into your body, shouldn’t you care just as much about what goes into your chickens?

Pick up a bag of commercial chicken feed and read the label. You’ll likely find:

• GMO corn and soy.
• “Animal by-products” (what animal? which parts?).
• Synthetic vitamins and minerals.
• Preservatives and additives you can’t pronounce.

Even bags labeled “organic” can be hit-or-miss—and they’re expensive. We’re talking $25–$45 for a 50-pound bag, depending on where you live.

There’s a better way.

You can make your own organic chicken feed at home. You’ll know every single ingredient. You’ll control the quality. And you’ll raise healthier birds that produce better eggs.

This guide gives you everything you need:

• The nutritional science behind what chickens actually need.
• A complete master recipe with exact measurements.
• Variations for chicks, meat birds, molting hens, and more.
• Where to source organic ingredients affordably.
• Mixing, storing, and feeding instructions.
• Troubleshooting common problems.

Let’s build a better feed—and a healthier flock.

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I. Understanding Chicken Nutrition

Before you mix a single ingredient, you need to understand what chickens actually need to thrive.

Why Nutrition Matters

Proper nutrition affects everything:

• Egg production: Consistent laying requires adequate protein and calcium.
• Egg quality: Shell strength, yolk color, and nutritional content depend on diet.
• Feather health: Feathers are almost pure protein.
• Immune function: Well-nourished birds resist disease better.
• Behavior: Nutritional deficiencies can cause feather pecking, aggression, and other problems.

The Key Nutritional Components

1. Protein

Protein is the building block of eggs, feathers, and muscle. It’s the most critical nutrient to get right.

• Laying hens: 16–18% protein
• Chicks: 18–22% protein
• Meat birds: 20–24% protein
• Molting hens: 18–20% protein (feathers are 85% protein)

2. Carbohydrates (Energy)

Grains provide the energy chickens need for daily activity, staying warm, and producing eggs. Carbs should make up the bulk of the diet.

3. Fats

Fats are a concentrated energy source. They support feather health, help absorb fat-soluble vitamins, and provide essential fatty acids. Aim for 3–5% of the diet.

4. Calcium

Critical for strong eggshells. Laying hens need 3–4% calcium in their diet. Non-laying birds (roosters, chicks, pullets) need much less—around 1%. Too much calcium can damage kidneys in non-layers.

5. Phosphorus

Works with calcium for bone health. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio should be roughly 2:1 for laying hens.

6. Vitamins & Minerals

Chickens need vitamins A, D, E, K, and the B-complex, plus trace minerals like zinc, manganese, selenium, iron, and copper. These support immune function, reproduction, bone health, and overall vitality.

7. Fiber

Aids digestion, but chickens don’t need excessive fiber. Moderate amounts from grains and alfalfa are sufficient.

8. Grit

Not a nutrient, but essential. Chickens don’t have teeth—they swallow food whole and grind it in their gizzard using small stones (grit). Without grit, they can’t properly digest whole grains.

Nutritional Needs by Life Stage

Life Stage	Protein	Calcium	Notes
Chicks (0–8 weeks)	18–22%	~1%	High protein for rapid growth
Pullets (8–18 weeks)	14–16%	~1%	Moderate protein, preparing for laying
Laying Hens	16–18%	3–4%	High calcium for eggshells
Roosters / Non-layers	12–14%	~1%	Lower protein, low calcium
Meat Birds	20–24%	~1%	Very high protein for fast growth
Molting Hens	18–20%	2–3%	Extra protein for feather regrowth

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II. Core Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Feed

Now let’s break down the ingredients you’ll use to build a balanced, nutritious feed.

Grains (Base – 50–60% of Feed)

Grains provide carbohydrates and energy. They’re the foundation of any chicken feed.

Grain	Protein	Notes
Whole Wheat	~11%	Excellent base grain. Palatable, versatile. 20–30% of mix.
Cracked Corn	~8%	High energy, low protein. Limit to 20–25% (too much = fat birds).
Oats	~11%	Good fiber, moderate protein. Whole or rolled. 10–15% of mix.
Barley	~10%	Similar to oats. Can substitute for some oats or wheat.
Millet	~11%	Small grain, adds variety. 5–10% of mix.
Sorghum (Milo)	~9%	Similar to corn. Good energy source.

Protein Sources (20–30% of Feed)

Protein is where many homemade feeds fall short. Don’t skimp here.

Ingredient	Protein	Notes
Field Peas	22–24%	Excellent plant protein. 15–20% of mix.
Lentils	~25%	Good protein, can be pricey.
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS)	~16%	Protein + healthy fats. Great for feathers. 5–10% of mix.
Flaxseed	~18%	Omega-3 fatty acids. Boosts omega-3s in eggs. 2–5% of mix.
Sesame Seeds	~18%	Good fats and calcium. Use sparingly (expensive).
Fish Meal	~60%	Excellent protein and amino acids. 2–5% of mix. Has a strong smell.
Dried Mealworms	~50%	High-protein treat/supplement.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae	~40%	Sustainable protein source.
Alfalfa Meal	15–17%	Also provides vitamins A, E, K. 5% of mix.
Brewer’s Yeast	40–50%	B-vitamins and protein. 1–2% of mix.

Calcium Sources

Calcium is critical for laying hens but should be offered separately, not mixed into the feed. This allows layers to take what they need while preventing non-layers from getting too much.

Source	Notes
Oyster Shell	Crushed, offered free-choice in a separate dish.
Crushed Eggshells	Free and recycled. Bake at 250°F for 10 minutes to sanitize, then crush finely.
Limestone	Another calcium option.

Fats

Source	Notes
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds	Also a protein source.
Flaxseed	Omega-3s for healthier eggs.
Fish Meal	Also high protein.
Coconut Oil	Can be added in winter for extra energy.

Vitamins & Minerals

Source	Provides
Kelp Meal	Iodine, trace minerals, vitamins. 1–2% of mix.
Alfalfa Meal	Vitamins A, E, K, plus protein and fiber.
Brewer’s Yeast	B-vitamins.
Unrefined Sea Salt	Trace minerals. Very small amount (0.25–0.5%).

Grit

Offer granite grit free-choice in a separate dish. Chickens will take what they need to grind food in their gizzard. Free-range birds may find enough grit naturally, but it’s wise to offer it anyway.

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III. The Master Recipe: Organic Layer Feed

This recipe makes approximately 50 pounds of balanced layer feed with 16–17% protein—ideal for laying hens.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	% of Mix	Purpose
Whole Wheat	12 lbs	24%	Energy, protein
Cracked Corn	10 lbs	20%	Energy
Field Peas	10 lbs	20%	Protein
Oats (whole or rolled)	6 lbs	12%	Fiber, energy
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds	4 lbs	8%	Protein, fat, feather health
Flaxseed	2 lbs	4%	Omega-3 fatty acids
Fish Meal	2 lbs	4%	High-quality protein, amino acids
Alfalfa Meal	2 lbs	4%	Vitamins, protein, fiber
Kelp Meal	1 lb	2%	Minerals, iodine
Brewer’s Yeast	0.5 lb	1%	B-vitamins
Unrefined Sea Salt	0.25 lb	0.5%	Trace minerals
TOTAL	~50 lbs	100%

Instructions

1. Source organic, non-GMO ingredients. (See sourcing section below.)
2. Weigh each ingredient using a kitchen or postal scale. Weight is more accurate than volume.
3. Combine in a large, clean container. A food-grade bucket, large tub, or clean metal trash can works well.
4. Mix thoroughly. Use a shovel, paddle, or your hands (with gloves). Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed with no pockets of single ingredients.
5. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
6. Offer oyster shell and granite grit separately, free-choice, in their own dishes.

Feeding Guidelines

• Laying hens eat approximately 1/4 to 1/3 pound (4–5 ounces) of feed per day.
• Provide feed free-choice (always available) or on a consistent schedule.
• Ensure fresh, clean water is always available.
• Supplement with kitchen scraps, garden waste, and forage when possible.

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IV. Recipe Variations by Life Stage

Chick Starter (0–8 Weeks)

Chicks need higher protein for rapid growth and should not have added calcium.

Adjustments to Master Recipe:

• Increase field peas by 5 lbs
• Increase fish meal by 1 lb
• Decrease corn by 3 lbs
• Reduce or omit flaxseed (can be hard for chicks to digest)
• Do not add calcium supplements

Target protein: 20–22%

Tip: Grind or crack grains smaller for tiny beaks. A grain mill or blender works well.

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Grower/Pullet Feed (8–18 Weeks)

Pullets need moderate protein as they prepare for laying.

Adjustments:

• Reduce fish meal by 1 lb
• Reduce field peas by 2 lbs
• Increase oats by 2 lbs

Target protein: 14–16%

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Meat Bird Feed

Meat birds need very high protein for fast, efficient growth.

Adjustments:

• Increase field peas by 5 lbs
• Increase fish meal by 2 lbs
• Add 2–3 lbs dried mealworms or black soldier fly larvae
• Decrease corn by 5 lbs

Target protein: 20–24%

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Molting Supplement

When hens molt, they need extra protein to regrow feathers (which are 85% protein).

Adjustments:

• Increase BOSS by 2 lbs
• Increase fish meal by 1 lb
• Offer mealworms as treats

Target protein: 18–20%

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Winter Feed

In cold weather, chickens need extra energy to stay warm.

Adjustments:

• Increase corn by 3 lbs
• Increase BOSS by 2 lbs
• Consider adding a splash of coconut oil or animal fat

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V. Supplements & Additions

Free-Choice Supplements (Always Available)

Supplement	Purpose
Oyster shell	Calcium for laying hens
Granite grit	Digestion

Set these out in separate dishes. Chickens will self-regulate and take what they need.

Beneficial Additions

Addition	Benefits	How to Use
Apple cider vinegar	Gut health, probiotics	1 tbsp per gallon of water, a few times per week
Garlic	Immune support, natural dewormer	Crushed cloves in water or feed occasionally
Herbs	Various health benefits	Oregano (antibacterial), thyme, parsley, mint—fresh or dried
Fermented feed	Improved digestion, better nutrient absorption	Ferment feed 2–4 days before feeding
Sprouted grains	Fresh greens, increased nutrition	Sprout wheat, barley, or oats on trays
Kitchen/garden scraps	Variety, nutrition, reduces waste	Vegetables, fruits, leafy greens

Foods to AVOID

Food	Reason
Avocado (skin and pit)	Contains persin—toxic to chickens
Chocolate	Toxic
Raw dried beans	Contain hemagglutinin—toxic (must be cooked)
Onions (large amounts)	Can cause anemia
Citrus (large amounts)	May reduce egg production
Moldy or spoiled food	Mycotoxins can be deadly
Salty or processed foods	Unhealthy
Green potato skins/sprouts	Contain solanine—toxic

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VI. Sourcing Organic Ingredients

Where to Buy

Source	Pros	Cons
Local feed mills	Bulk pricing, fresh	May not stock all ingredients
Farm co-ops	Bulk buying power, community	Requires coordination
Azure Standard	Wide organic selection, delivers to drop points	Shipping costs, minimum orders
Online retailers	Convenient, wide selection	Shipping costs
Health food stores	Small quantities available	Expensive per pound
Bulk food stores	Grains and seeds	May not be certified organic
Local farmers	Fresh, local, may barter	Availability varies

What “Organic” Means

• USDA Certified Organic: No synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs. Look for the USDA Organic seal.
• Non-GMO: Not the same as organic, but still valuable if organic isn’t available.
• When in doubt, ask suppliers for certification documentation.

Buying in Bulk

• 50-pound bags are the most cost-effective.
• Store properly to prevent spoilage and pests.
• Consider splitting bulk orders with other chicken keepers to save money and reduce waste.

Growing Your Own

You can reduce costs further by growing some ingredients:

• Grains: Wheat, oats, corn, and millet can be grown in a backyard garden.
• Protein: Raise mealworms in bins or black soldier fly larvae in compost.
• Greens: Grow fodder (sprouted grains), lettuce, kale, or comfrey.
• Herbs: Easy to grow and beneficial for chicken health.

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VII. Mixing & Storing Your Feed

Mixing

1. Use a large, clean container—food-grade bucket, tub, or clean metal trash can.
2. Weigh ingredients with a kitchen or postal scale for accuracy.
3. Add ingredients in layers, then mix thoroughly.
4. A shovel, paddle, or gloved hands work well.
5. Mix until uniform—no pockets of single ingredients.

Batch Sizes

Flock Size	Recommended Batch
3–6 hens	25 lbs
6–12 hens	50 lbs
12+ hens	100 lbs or more

Storage

• Store in airtight containers (metal trash cans with tight lids, food-grade buckets with gamma lids).
• Keep in a cool, dry, dark place.
• Protect from moisture, insects, and rodents.
• Use within 4–6 weeks for optimal freshness.
• Label containers with the date mixed.

Signs of Spoilage

• Musty or sour smell
• Visible mold
• Insect infestation
• Clumping from moisture

If in doubt, throw it out. Moldy feed contains mycotoxins that can sicken or kill chickens.

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VIII. Cost Analysis

Commercial Organic Feed

• $25–$45 per 50-lb bag (varies by region and brand)
• Convenient but adds up quickly

Homemade Organic Feed (Estimated Costs)

Ingredient	Cost/lb (approx.)	Amount	Cost
Whole Wheat	$0.50–$0.80	12 lbs	$6–$10
Cracked Corn	$0.30–$0.50	10 lbs	$3–$5
Field Peas	$0.60–$1.00	10 lbs	$6–$10
Oats	$0.50–$0.80	6 lbs	$3–$5
BOSS	$0.80–$1.20	4 lbs	$3–$5
Flaxseed	$1.00–$1.50	2 lbs	$2–$3
Fish Meal	$1.50–$2.50	2 lbs	$3–$5
Alfalfa Meal	$0.50–$1.00	2 lbs	$1–$2
Kelp Meal	$2.00–$3.00	1 lb	$2–$3
Brewer’s Yeast	$3.00–$5.00	0.5 lb	$1.50–$2.50
Sea Salt	$1.00	0.25 lb	$0.25
TOTAL		~50 lbs	$31–$51

The Bottom Line

Homemade organic feed costs are comparable to commercial organic feed—sometimes slightly less, sometimes slightly more, depending on your sourcing.

But the real savings come from:

• Buying in bulk
• Joining a co-op
• Growing some ingredients yourself
• Supplementing with scraps, forage, and homegrown protein

And the real value? You know exactly what’s in your feed. No mystery ingredients. No fillers. No GMOs. No compromises.

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IX. Troubleshooting Common Problems

“My Hens Aren’t Laying Well”

• Check protein levels. Layers need 16–18%.
• Ensure adequate calcium. Offer oyster shell free-choice.
• Rule out other causes: Insufficient light (need 14–16 hours), stress, molting, age, illness, or seasonal changes.

“Eggshells Are Thin or Soft”

• Increase calcium. Offer more oyster shell or crushed eggshells.
• Check vitamin D. Kelp provides some; sunlight is the best source.
• Verify calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (should be roughly 2:1).

“Chickens Are Picking Out Favorite Ingredients”

• Mix more thoroughly.
• Grind or crack larger ingredients into smaller pieces.
• Try fermenting the feed—it becomes a uniform mash that’s harder to pick through.

“Feed Is Getting Moldy”

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in a cool, dry location.
• Make smaller batches if you can’t use feed quickly enough.
• Check for moisture sources in your storage area.

“Feed Seems Expensive”

• Buy in bulk.
• Join a co-op or buying group.
• Grow some ingredients (grains, greens, herbs).
• Supplement with kitchen scraps and garden waste.
• Raise mealworms for free protein.

“I’m Not Sure About the Protein Percentage”

• Use an online feed calculator (search “chicken feed protein calculator”).
• Observe your birds: Good feathering, consistent laying, healthy weight, and active behavior indicate adequate nutrition.
• Adjust as needed: Add more protein sources if birds seem deficient; reduce if they’re getting fat.

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X. Advanced Tips

Fermenting Feed

Fermenting feed for 2–4 days before feeding offers several benefits:

• Increased nutrient availability (fermentation breaks down anti-nutrients).
• Improved gut health (natural probiotics).
• Reduced waste (chickens eat it all—no picking through).
• Chickens love it.

How to ferment:

1. Place feed in a bucket or container.
2. Cover with water (1–2 inches above feed).
3. Stir daily.
4. Feed after 2–4 days when bubbly and slightly sour-smelling.
5. Keep a continuous batch going.

Sprouting Grains

Sprouted grains provide fresh greens year-round and increase nutritional value.

How to sprout:

1. Soak grains (wheat, barley, oats) overnight.
2. Drain and spread on trays.
3. Mist with water 1–2 times daily.
4. Harvest when sprouts are 2–4 inches tall (about 5–7 days).
5. Feed the entire mat—roots, seeds, and greens.

Raising Your Own Protein

• Mealworms: Easy to raise in plastic bins with oats and vegetable scraps. High-protein treat.
• Black Soldier Fly Larvae: Can be raised in compost bins. Excellent protein source and sustainable.
• Free-Range Foraging: Chickens with access to pasture find bugs, worms, seeds, and greens on their own.

Seasonal Adjustments

• Winter: Increase corn and fats for extra energy and warmth. A handful of scratch grains before bedtime helps chickens stay warm overnight.
• Summer: Lighter feed, more fresh greens, and plenty of cool water.
• Molting: Boost protein significantly to support feather regrowth.

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XI. Quick Reference Tables

Ingredient Function Summary

Ingredient	Primary Function
Wheat, Corn, Oats, Barley	Energy (carbohydrates)
Field Peas, Lentils	Plant protein
BOSS, Flaxseed	Protein + healthy fats
Fish Meal	High-quality protein, amino acids
Alfalfa Meal	Vitamins, protein, fiber
Kelp Meal	Minerals, iodine
Brewer’s Yeast	B-vitamins, protein
Oyster Shell	Calcium (for layers only)
Granite Grit	Digestion

Life Stage Protein Targets

Life Stage	Protein %
Chicks (0–8 weeks)	20–22%
Pullets (8–18 weeks)	14–16%
Laying Hens	16–18%
Meat Birds	20–24%
Molting Hens	18–20%
Roosters/Non-layers	12–14%

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XII. Conclusion: Feed Your Flock Right

You raise chickens because you care.

You care about fresh eggs. You care about self-sufficiency. You care about knowing where your food comes from.

So why would you feed your birds mystery ingredients from a bag?

Making your own organic chicken feed puts you in control. You choose every ingredient. You ensure quality. You avoid GMOs, fillers, and chemicals.

And your chickens will thank you with:

• Consistent, healthy egg production
• Strong shells and rich, orange yolks
• Glossy feathers and bright eyes
• Robust immune systems
• Happy, active behavior

Your Action Plan

1. Start with the master recipe. It’s balanced, proven, and appropriate for laying hens.
2. Source your ingredients. Check local feed mills, co-ops, or online suppliers like Azure Standard.
3. Mix your first batch. It takes less than 30 minutes.
4. Set out oyster shell and grit in separate dishes.
5. Observe your flock. Healthy birds, strong shells, and consistent laying mean you’ve got it right.
6. Adjust as needed. Every flock is different. Tweak protein levels, try fermenting, add seasonal supplements.

You’ve already taken the first step toward self-sufficiency by raising chickens.

Now take the next step by feeding them right.

Your flock—and your breakfast table—will never be the same.