![]() ![]() In order to have the most accurate calculation for your custom feed, use the nutrition information from your own packaging, or ask the feed mill from where you source your ingredients. They are not identical across producers (sometimes differing by several points depending on the varieties and growing conditions). The protein and fat content shown for each ingredient are based on nutrition information sourced from my own ingredient labels, as well as typical values listed on cooperative extension sites. (If you want to learn more, the University of Kentucky Poultry Extension offers excellent information on poultry nutrition.) Try to use a wide variety of grains, seeds, and legumes (as well as a steady supply of greens and kitchen scraps) to round out your chickens’ feed. It only determines the protein level of your feed, and doesn’t consider the other crucial components of a diet, such as amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Keep in mind that the spreadsheet offers a simplistic view of your flock’s nutritional needs. I buy mine in bulk from Azure Standard, as well as from Amazon (using their free Prime shipping - you can sign up for a 30-day trial here) and my local feed stores. This is especially useful for figuring out if it’s cost-effective to buy certain ingredients. Simply input the price per pound, and the spreadsheet will update with the total cost of your feed. I’ve also included a column to calculate the cost of your ingredients. While the recommended ranges are ideal for feeding, they don’t take into account other greens, weeds, seeds, bugs, and treats that your chickens may eat throughout the day, especially if they free-range.ĭon’t get too hung up on the number if you’re feeding other things besides grains a diverse diet is more important than a strict percentage. Layer (18 weeks plus, or after the first egg)ġ6 to 17 percent protein, plus free-choice oyster shells (for calcium) The amount of protein you should aim for depends on the age of your chickens. Weight is the most accurate measure for whole grains, so I recommend investing in a kitchen scale if you haven’t already. I’ve included a list of common grains, seeds, legumes, and other ingredients that typically make up a poultry feed, along with their crude protein content and crude fat content.Īfter entering the quantity and weight of each ingredient you use, the total protein will update automatically, allowing you to formulate your feed on the fly. ![]() Garden Betty’s Chicken Feed Calculator works as an Excel (.xlsx) download, so you can save the spreadsheet to your computer, create a custom recipe, and edit the information as needed. If you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission. (This usually happens in late summer to early fall, when my flock is molting and their nutritional needs change a bit.) Disclosure: All products on this page are independently selected. I created this spreadsheet when I first started making my own chicken feed, and still use it from time to time when I reformulate my recipe.
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