I find layer pellets to be too low in protein content. You don't have to feed them layer pellets. You can keep them on a unmedicated chick feed, a whole flock feed, or a flock raiser feed for their entire lives. It's just so much simpler to buy one feed that's appropriate for everyone rather than worrying about who is getting what. Most of the time, egg eating is caused by not enough protein in the diet. Hens eat the protein rich eggs to help make up for what they are lacking. A higher protein content feed helps avoid this. It also helps them lay better in warmer weather and helps them feather out faster after a molt. To get good quality eggs shells, you should supplement your layers with a separate dish of crushed oyster shell. A 5 pound bag costs about $5 and last for at least a month or two.
