Questions about fermented feed

[peepers93]

Hey there! So, I’m a long time chicken owner/breeder. I’m interested in learning ways to keep my chickens healthier, and ultimately try to cut down on feed costs. I have read that fermented feed is better for your chickens and can help reduce your feed costs. So, that being said, I have a few questions and would appreciate any and all feedback!

1. What feed is best to ferment? Right now my hens are eating a typical layer pellet free choice. I’m open to mixing my own feed if it’s a cost effective/healthier method.

2. Do you feed fermented free choice, or give them a measured amount each day? I would assume if I started my chicks on fermented they would need free choice access until grown..but what about the adults?

3. Can waterfowl eat fermented feed? I also raise geese and will be adding call ducks this spring.

 

[FrostRanger]

1. Homemade feed is almost never cheaper and it can be tough to get right. Making homemade feed is not recommend in most situations because of that and how expensive it is. You can ferment pretty much any feed though

2. Most people offer a certain amount of fermented feed once or twice a day and have dry feed available free choice. A few do feed entirely fermented in which case you would experiment and see what amount leaves you with almost no leftovers. I do reccomend having dry food available though as chickens naturally eat a little bit throughout the day

3. Yes