Black flakes in layer feed?

[PeepingK]

I recently purchased a couple bags of layer mash feed from this local mill for the first time.
When I first opened the bag everything looked fine and the chickens loved it, but when I got about halfway through I noticed that there were lot of black pieces or flakes in the feed. The chickens don’t seem to want to eat the black stuff and I’m wondering what it is.
It looks almost like charcoal, obviously I know that’s probably not what it is so what could it be? (It’s not oyster shell)

 

[nuthatched]

Does it break apart? What does the ingredient label say?

 

[PeepingK]

Does it break apart? What does the ingredient label say?

It does if I crush it but it’s pretty hard. I’ll check the ingredients if I can find the sheet

 

[MysteryChicken]

Almost looks like asphalt.

 

[PeepingK]

Almost looks like asphalt.

It’s weird right? It doesn’t have a smell though and it isn’t as hard or heavy as asphalt

 

[MysteryChicken]

It’s weird right? It doesn’t have a smell though and it isn’t as hard or heavy as asphalt

Are the flat sides glassy?
If it burns, & stinks like tar it probably is asphalt. It doesn't really smell unless heated.

 

[MysteryChicken]

Molasses is more of a dark chocolate brown, so that can be ruled out.

 

[Luv Ducks]

I would return the bag where you got it from and not feed any more to your flock. They should explain how that might have happened and what it is. Either way they should give you a new bag. Good luck, it surely does not look normal in any feed I have ever seen.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

That doesn't look right at all

 

[WallyG74]

Only thing left to do is taste it.