Best Non-Gmo Layer Feed Options for Healthy Laying Hens and Quail
In this guide
- Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Quail Layer Feed 26%
- Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Soy and Corn Free Layer Blend 16%
- Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Backyard Chicken Feed 16%
- Purina Organic Layer Hen Feed Crumbles 35 lb
- New Country Organics I Pastured Perfect Layer Feed 40 lb
- Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Answering the question “Which non-GMO layer feed is best for my birds?” this guide highlights five top non-GMO layer feeds designed to support egg production and flock health. Each product targets different needs—from quail diets to corn-free, soy-free, or organic formulations. This overview helps buyers choose feeds that align with their birds’ age, species, and dietary preferences. The summary below compares key traits to aid quick decisions.
| Product | Species | Protein | Non-GMO | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wholesome Harvest Quail Layer Feed | Quail | 26% | Yes | Premium farm-made nutrition |
| Wholesome Harvest Soy & Corn Free Layer Blend | Chickens/Ducks | 16% | Yes | Soy-free, corn-free |
| Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Backyard Chicken Feed | Chickens | 16% | Yes | Non-GMO, antibiotic-free |
| Purina Organic Layer Crumbles | Chickens | 16% | Yes | USDA Organic, Oyster Strong System |
| New Country Organics Pastured Perfect Layer Feed | Chickens | 17% | Yes | Corn-free, soy-free |
Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Quail Layer Feed 26%
Best for quail because it focuses on compact, high-protein nutrition optimized for smaller birds. This 26% protein blend supports egg production and overall vitality without artificial additives. It’s produced on a seventh-generation family farm, emphasizing sustainable practices. Use this feed if your primary birds are quail and you want a non-GMO formula with probiotics and omega-3s to support egg quality.
Who it’s best for: quail keepers seeking a complete, non-GMO diet with natural probiotics and omega-3s to promote stronger eggs and better health. Cautions: verify the farm-source transparency and ensure the protein level matches your quail’s age and laying stage.
Wholesome Harvest Non-GMO Soy and Corn Free Layer Blend 16%
Best for flocks needing a soy-free and corn-free option without sacrificing nutrition. This 16% protein layer blend includes probiotics, linseed oil for omega-3s, and oyster shell for calcium. It also incorporates essential oils and herbs to support digestive health and egg production. Choose this if your birds have soy or corn sensitivities or you want a simpler, non-GMO base diet for mixed poultry (hens and ducks).
Who it’s best for: chicken and duck keepers seeking a complete non-GMO diet that avoids soy and corn. Cautions: the lower protein level means it may be less suited for very high-production layers or fast-growing juveniles.
Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Backyard Chicken Feed 16%
Best for standard backyard flocks of laying hens that prefer a straightforward 16% protein formula. The blend emphasizes all-natural ingredients, with non-GMO status and antibiotic-free assurances. It supports laying performance through a balanced mix of grains, minerals, and essential oils. A good pick if you want a reliable, non-GMO feed designed specifically for laying hens in a typical home setup.
Who it’s best for: backyard chicken owners seeking a simple, non-GMO feed with steady egg production. Cautions: check availability and ensure it matches your birds’ life stage and housing system.
Purina Organic Layer Hen Feed Crumbles 35 lb
Best for organic-focused flocks seeking certified non-GMO nutrition with an emphasis on shell quality. This 16% protein organic layer feed includes the Oyster Strong System, which helps stabilize calcium release during egg formation. It’s suitable for hens that require a steady, organic-certified diet and robust eggshells. Use this if you prioritize organic certification and a steady calcium supply for shell strength.
Who it’s best for: producers and home keepers who require USDA Organic certification and a reliable calcium delivery system. Cautions: organic feeds can be more variable in price and availability; verify sourcing and batch labeling for non-GMO assurances.
New Country Organics I Pastured Perfect Layer Feed 40 lb
Best for pastured hens needing corn-free and soy-free nutrition with strong protein at 17%. This certified organic and non-GMO formula is designed to support egg production and overall health in outdoor or free-range settings. It emphasizes high-protein, low-starch nutrition to help birds stay cooler in hot climates and maintain robust eggshells.
Who it’s best for: flocks with access to pasture seeking a corn-free, soy-free, organic option that promotes steady egg production. Cautions: may require mineral supplementation in some systems; confirm compatibility with your flock’s forage and climate.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Species-fit: Quail diets often benefit from higher protein; consider a product like the Quail Layer Feed if you raise quail primarily.
- Protein range: 16%–17% is common for laying hens; higher protein supports faster egg production but may not be necessary for older birds.
- Non-GMO focus: All five selections emphasize non-GMO ingredients; verify labeling if strict non-GMO status is essential.
- Allergies and sensitivities: If your birds are soy- or corn-sensitive, choose a corn-free and/or soy-free formulation.
- Organic vs. conventional: USDA Organic options offer certification and stricter farming practices; weigh this against price and access.
- Calcium delivery: Look for oyster shell or other calcium mechanisms to support eggshell quality during peak laying periods.
- Size and storage: Larger 40 lb bags may suit larger flocks or frequent feeders; consider storage space and turnover rate.
- Pasture and environment: Pastured or free-range birds may benefit from feeds designed to balance energy with easy digestion and gut health.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes a feed “non-GMO”?
– It avoids genetically modified organisms in its ingredients, with labeling that confirms non-GMO status. - Is higher protein always better for laying hens?
– Not always; 16%–17% is typical for laying hens, but younger or high-production birds may benefit from slightly higher protein. - Should I switch to corn-free or soy-free feeds?
– Consider corn-free/soy-free options if you have allergies or sensitivities in your flock, or if you’re aiming for a specific dietary profile. - How important is organic certification?
– Organic certification matters for those prioritizing organic farming standards and pesticide-free inputs, though it may come at a premium. - Can I feed a mixed flock with different feed formulas?
– It’s possible, but consistent nutrition is easier with a single feed tailored to your flock’s dominant species and life stage. - What if my birds have calcium deficiency issues?
– Ensure calcium is delivered via oystershell or similar additives; adjust feed choice to emphasize calcium availability during egg formation.