Optimising Feed for Egg Production

Understanding nutritional needs

Chickens require a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to lay eggs consistently. Layer feeds, specifically formulated for laying hens, contain optimum levels of calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D3 for bone strength, good shell quality, rich yellow yolk colour, high egg numbers and excellent egg size.

Protein and energy are vital for egg production and to ensure steady laying. Calcium, as well as phosphorus and Vitamin D3, are essential for strong eggshells and general hen health.

If certain nutrients are lacking, egg production, shell quality, and hen health can all be affected. Providing complete, balanced, and high-quality nutrition will support the hens' health, helping you achieve high productivity, vibrant egg yolk colour, and good shell quality.

Top tips

1. Consistent access: Provide constant access to feed as well as clean, fresh water. Hens need to eat frequently to sustain egg production. Feed birds inside to avoid feed becoming damp and developing mould.
2. Grit: Ensure your hens have access to grit (tiny stones), which helps in grinding down feed in their gizzards, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
3. Supplementary feeds: Avoid giving your hens too many extra treats. Make sure scratch treats like mixed corn, oats, grain, sunflower seeds, and barley are not mistaken for their main diet.
4. Keep an eye on your flock: Pay close attention to your flock, and newcomers in particular, to ensure that all birds are eating consistently and getting what they need.
5. Storage: Ensure that all feed is stored in a cool, dry and dark place away from moisture, sun and rodents. This will ensure the feed remains in good condition and can effectively support laying.
6. Seasonal considerations: Over winter hens expend more energy to stay warm. Increase their caloric intake by adding cracked corn or scratch grains to their diet. In hot weather, hens might eat less so ensure they stay hydrated and provide high-protein treats if needed to maintain egg production.
7. Environment: The right environment goes hand-in-hand with diet for good egg production. Make sure you have an adequate number of nesting boxes with clean, comfortable bedding which is cleaned and changed frequently.

To find out more about our carefully formulated Layer Pellets and Mash visit: https://www.forfarmers.co.uk/smallholder-feeds/smallholder-poultry/farmgate-smallholder-poultry-feed-range/layer-pellets-and-mash