Increasing Protein and Variety

[Willow77]

Would love to increase the protein in store-bought feed. I've seen adding whole grains (wheat, corn, whole oats) can raise the protein level. Unfortunately, I don't have a co-op nearby to buy bulk grains. Any ideas? I'm in San Diego and the best I can come up with is Sprouts or Amazon. I'd like to make this an affordable option. Thanks in advance!

 

[Folly's place]

None of those grains will increase the protein level or quality in a balanced chicken feed. The best and least expensive way to feed your birds is to buy a fresh (by mill date) complete feed at the feed store. Here we use an all-flock feed that's 20% protein, with oyster shell separately offered for the actively laying hens.
Layer feeds are usually about 16% protein, and with high calcium levels needed for those hens, so a diet meant as the only feed for those smaller high producing hens.
Mary

 

[PioneerChicks]

Welcome to BYC!

Bugs have a lot of protein. You can raise mealworms or black soldier flies for them. Or if you let them free range they will find their own bugs.

You could also scramble some eggs and feed them back to the chickens.

Best of luck!