Good protein sources for chickens include soybean meal, fish meal, and legumes, which support growth, egg production, and overall health.
Protein is the foundation of your chickens’ health, egg production, and feather quality. Without enough protein, your flock may produce fewer eggs, molt poorly, or develop health issues. This guide covers the best protein sources, when to supplement, and how to balance their diet for optimal results.
Why Protein Matters for Chickens
Chickens use protein for every critical function:
- Eggs contain 6 grams of protein each
- Feathers make up 7% of a chicken’s body weight
- Muscle development requires constant protein intake
Studies show that insufficient protein reduces egg production by up to 30%. During molting, protein needs spike as chickens regrow feathers.
Protein Requirements by Life Stage
| Life Stage | Protein Needs |
|---|---|
| Chicks (0-8 weeks) | 20-22% protein |
| Growers (8-18 weeks) | 18-20% protein |
| Laying Hens | 16-18% protein |
| Molting Chickens | 19-20% protein |
Top 10 Protein Sources for Chickens
1. Layer Pellets (16-18% Protein)
Quality layer feed should form 80-90% of your hens’ diet. Look for pellets with:
- 16% minimum protein for layers
- Added calcium for strong eggshells
- No artificial growth hormones
2. Mealworms (50% Protein)
Dried mealworms are a chicken favorite. Feed 1-2 tablespoons per bird daily during molting or egg production slumps. Store in airtight containers to prevent pests.
3. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (42% Protein)
These sustainable grubs offer protein plus calcium. Perfect for hens producing watery eggs needing mineral boosts.
4. Cooked Eggs (91% Protein Digestibility)
Scrambled or boiled eggs provide complete protein. Crush shells for extra calcium. Never feed raw eggs to prevent egg-eating habits.
5. Fish Meal (60-72% Protein)
Small amounts of cooked fish (sardines, anchovies) provide omega-3s. Limit to twice weekly to avoid fishy-tasting eggs.
6. Soybeans (36-56% Protein)
Cooked soybeans are excellent plant protein. Must be heat-treated to destroy trypsin inhibitors. Feed as 10% of total diet.
7. Pumpkin Seeds (30% Protein)
Raw or roasted seeds offer protein and may help with natural worm control. Feed sparingly as treats.
8. Lentils (26% Protein)
Cooked lentils are digestible plant protein. Soak and boil thoroughly to remove lectins. Mix with grains for complete amino acids.
9. Plain Yogurt (10% Protein)
Probiotics support gut health during stress. Offer 1 teaspoon per bird weekly. Avoid flavored varieties with added sugar.
10. Foraged Insects (Varies)
Free-ranging chickens consume beetles, grasshoppers and worms. A study found pastured hens get 20% of protein from insects.
When to Supplement Protein
Molting Season
Chickens need extra protein for 4-8 weeks while regrowing feathers. Increase protein to 19-20% during this period.
Cold Weather
Winter increases calorie needs. Add high-fat proteins like sunflower seeds for energy and warmth.
Low Egg Production
If egg numbers drop, check protein intake before assuming illness. Hens need 4 grams protein per egg.
Introducing New Birds
Boost protein when adding chickens to your flock to reduce stress and pecking.
Common Protein Mistakes
- Overfeeding treats: Limit extras to 10% of diet to avoid nutritional imbalances
- Poor quality feed: Cheap mixes often contain fillers with low protein
- Raw legumes: Uncooked beans contain toxins harmful to chickens
- Excess fish: Can cause off-flavors in eggs if fed daily
For optimal health, combine quality layer feed with strategic protein supplements during high-demand periods. Monitor egg production and feather condition to assess your flock’s protein status.