⠀ Given broiler growing feed for chicks that will lay

[chickencrazy21]

Twice now i have ordered from my local feed store grower feed. Last time i told them not the chick mash but the step up before the lay crumble. I didnt think anything of it and fed my 14 that were hatched around december and earlier a 50 pound bag...as i was throwing the bag away i noticed it was for broiler birds. When i ordered this month i TOLD them grower feed for chicks. Once again they sent me food for broiler birds. I dont have meat birds. Is this the correct thing my chicks...or guess more teens now should be eating? Or is my local feed store dipping in to too much scratch? I havnt opened the broiler bag and keep forgeting to call them. The past 3 days the teens have just gotten lay crumble. Is broiler and growing feed the same thing? I get my feed delivered to me and wasnt home when they droped it off so i coildnt ask or tell them of the mistake. The very youngest in the group are from around december hatch.

 

[Pork Pie]

Typically, grower food (and I'd also assume broiler feed) is higher in protein to promote growth and this is what your chickens should ideally be eating until they begin to lay - only then is layer feed necessary (it contains calcium to help with egg production). Maybe if you look at the ingredients on the bag of broiler feed and compare it to other "grower" feed you should get an idea if its ok - I personally would consider using that type of feed acceptable, but we all have different views.

All the best
CT

 

[MeepBeep]

The only real difference between this or that type of grower, starter or what not chicken feed is the protein level, and a little excess protein won't hurt but to much excess will be wasteful... Broiler grower won't hurt your birds in the least...

The only feed that is actually different beyond protein levels is the layer that contains extra calcium, and excess calcium is not good for growing birds or even birds that are not actively laying and should only be fed to birds that are laying...

If you have mixed flock it's best to feed a normal feed like grower or all flock and then simply offer a side of oyster shells for the laying hens to nibble on as needed, birds are very aware of their calcium needs and will eat what is needed...

 

[chickencrazy21]

For now i have the younger ones still seperated in another pen from the adults. Im glad to know the broiler one wont hurt them. Thank you so much.