Poultry Clinic 11/8/25
Nutrena Poultry Feed Presentation Recap
We had a great opportunity to learn from a Nutrena representative this clinic, who shared tons of helpful information about poultry nutrition and their different feed lines. Whether you raise chickens, ducks, or even show birds, understanding what goes into your feed (and what your birds need at different stages) can make a big difference in their health and performance.
If you weren’t able to attend, here’s a summary of what was discussed:
Poultry Digestive Systems
We started by talking about how birds’ digestive systems work — and how they process their feed in a specific order to get the most nutrients possible.
Flock Shield was highlighted as a probiotic blend that supports gut health, helping with growth and protein absorption.
Understanding Feed Labels and Forms
The bag can say anything, but the tag tells the truth. The tag is legally required to list exactly what’s in the feed.
Crumble feed is simply broken-up pellets — perfect for smaller birds who can’t handle large pieces yet.
Crude protein refers to the minimum amount of protein in that feed, not the total potential protein.
Feed Types and Nutritional Tips
Starter feed supports early development and probiotics. Rare or delicate breeds benefit from staying on starter longer.
Never feed chick starter to waterfowl — their nutritional needs are different.
Organic birds must be raised organically from day one to be labeled “organic.”
Oyster shell should be available to all laying birds. While layer feed includes some calcium, additional shells help those that need more. Start offering when birds begin layer feed.
Grit helps grind food and is essential for birds in cages or on limited range. Offer once they start eating extras like scratch.
Feather Fixer is great for molting or show birds, promoting feather regrowth and condition.
Hearty Hen includes ingredients that support egg production and overall health.
Meat bird feed includes pre- and probiotics for fast, healthy growth. Provide feed freely for the first 3 days, then limit to 12 hours per day afterward — otherwise, they may overeat.
Scratch grains should make up no more than 10% of the diet — think of it as a treat, like fries or candy!
Country Feed is a solid, versatile line just below the premium Naturewise range. It includes options for less common poultry types.
Duck and All Flock feeds contain niacin, which is essential for waterfowl health.
Duck feed is specially designed to reduce mess when it gets wet and still provides the niacin ducks need.
High-Pro Scratch has 12% protein (compared to 5% in normal scratch), making it a healthier treat that can be given more often.
Naturewise Layer Grain looks like scratch but includes all necessary nutrients — chickens love it because it feels like a treat!
Bantam Crumble is formulated for silkies (includes niacin) and serves as a layer feed. Silkies should not be fed medicated starter.
Raffle Fun
To wrap things up, a few lucky attendees even won bags of feed during the raffle — a big thank you to Nutrena for sharing their time, expertise, and some great prizes!
