Hi,
I used to buy my feed at Hunt and Behrens but found the pellets size to be too big for my bantams and did not want to buy different food for the different flocks. I switched to Bar Al because the pellet size was smaller and they also offered a 20% protein feed.
I also started using Bar Ale chick starter and the next couple of batches of chicks showed signs of vitamin deficiency. The SFH were the most affected. I switched to Purina Chick Starter and also began supplementing with vitamin B12. I have not had vit. def issues since. I am not blaming the feed because I have heard Swedes often have problems processing commercial feed. The Vit. B 12 supplements have made all the difference.
However, due to my experience with the Bar Al chick starter, I decided to also switch my layers to Purina Layena but did not like the fact that it was only 16% protein, so I switch to Purina flock raiser (20% protein) and added extra calcium.
I have been struggling with the idea of buying from the "big Guy" as I would rather support local mills. My local feed store started carrying King Feed, so I switch again. I have heard great things about King feed but have not used it long enough to give any valuable feedback. I think alot of people in the forum use King Feed so perhaps they can share their experience. King seems like it is becoming more accessible so perhaps you can find it at a store close to you.
