my chicks prefer the 'treats' - becoming a bit of an issue

[ShanandGem]

I have a Tupperware of ground almonds, wheat germ, shelled hemp, ground flax, ground oatmeal and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt that I have been 'treating' my chicks with. They're now on strike when it comes to the store bought chick starter and seem to be waiting for me to show up with the yummy stuff instead. I don't have any way of knowing if it's even close to being nutritionally complete enough for them to live on, and have taken to putting a little sprinkle of it on top of their starter in the hopes they'll eat the commercial feed while rooting for the treats.
Any suggestions? I don't want to cut them off cold turkey as I think they would be really confused by that and maybe not take in enough calories.. I offered scrambled eggs this morning and they refused it. Same with some very short bits of sprouted wheat grass.

 

[Jensownzoo]

Cut them off cold turkey. It really isn't doing them any favors to string them along.

If they still aren't eating their chick chow, take it away for an hour or two. Then present it in the same way, and with the same enthusiasm, as you did their treats. It will be "new" again.

 

[Folly's place]

My chicks get chick starter, and water. No goodies until later, and with grit available. My broody raised chicks eat chick starter, and whatever they find out there with mom. Take advantage of all the research that's gone into making totally balanced rations for your birds! Mary

 

[ShanandGem]

I think it may have resolved itself. Today they are back to eating everything they can get their beaks on. May have to tape the electrical wires up on the wall.....