What Makes a Chicken Grower Feed Different?
Between the fluffy chick stage and the egg-laying years, adolescent chickens go through a growth spurt that demands higher protein. A chicken grower feed is formulated for this middle stage—typically from about 6 to 18 weeks old. During this time, your birds need a balanced ration that supports muscle and feather development without the extra calcium that layer feed provides.
Not all grower feeds are created equal. Many conventional options rely on corn and soy as cheap fillers, but those ingredients can be hard to digest for some birds and may come from genetically modified crops. If you're looking for a cleaner option, non-GMO chicken feed that's also corn-free and soy-free can be a better fit for your flock.
What's Inside a Non-GMO, Corn & Soy Free Grower Feed?
- Chicken Grower Feed, Non-GMO, Corn & Soy Free: Small Pet Select Chicken Grower Feed is packed with 18% protein pellets and is completely soy-free, corn-free, and non-GMO. All ingredients are locally sourced in the Pacific Northwest. A guaranteed 18% protein meets the needs of adolescent chicks without relying on soy or corn as protein sources. Local sourcing also supports transparency about what goes into the feed.
Chicken Grower Feed, Non-GMO, Corn & Soy Free
Why Avoid Corn and Soy in Chicken Feed?
Corn and soy are common fillers in many commercial feeds, but they come with trade-offs. Corn is high in carbohydrates and can contribute to obesity in chickens that aren't getting enough exercise. Soy is often genetically modified and can be a common allergen for some birds. Removing both from the diet means you're feeding your chickens ingredients that provide more actual nutrition per pound.
A corn-free and soy-free chicken feed also tends to be more digestible, which can lead to better feed conversion and less waste. For chicken keepers who prioritize whole-food ingredients, this type of feed aligns with a more natural approach to poultry nutrition.
What to Look for in a Chicken Grower Feed
- Protein level around 18%: Adolescent chicks need a moderate protein boost to support feathering and growth, but not so high that it stresses their kidneys. 18% is a solid target.
- Non-GMO certification or sourcing: If you want to avoid genetically modified ingredients, look for feed that explicitly states it's non-GMO and sources ingredients from trusted farms.
- No corn or soy fillers: A feed that skips corn and soy in favor of other protein and energy sources—like peas, flaxseed, or sunflower meal—offers more bioavailable nutrition.
- Locally sourced ingredients: Knowing where the ingredients come from adds accountability and often means fresher, less-processed feed.
When to Switch from Starter to Grower Feed
Most chicks are ready for grower feed around 6 weeks of age, once they've fully feathered out and no longer need the high-protein starter crumble. You can feed grower feed straight through until about 18 weeks, then transition to a layer feed as they approach egg-laying age.
The switch should be gradual—mix a little grower feed in with the starter over a few days to avoid digestive upset. Similarly, when it's time to move to layer feed, blend the grower and layer rations for about a week.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
A corn-free and soy-free grower feed may cost more per bag than conventional options, and it might not be available at every local feed store. You may need to order online or find a specialty supplier. Additionally, if your flock includes breeds with very high energy needs (like large meat birds), you may need to supplement with additional protein sources—something to discuss with your vet.
Also note that grower feed is not suitable for laying hens because it lacks the calcium needed for strong eggshells. Stick to the recommended feeding window of 6 to 18 weeks for best results.
