Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
When the cold settles in, your hens burn more energy just staying warm — which means their feed has to pull double duty. The right winter chicken feed keeps them healthy and productive during the short, dark days.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you have a small backyard flock or a larger operation, these seven options represent the best chicken feed for winter based on protein levels, calcium for shell strength, and real-world feedback from keepers who deal with freezing temps.
Quick Picks
- Purina Layena Crumbles, Chicken Feed — Best Overall
- Small Pet Select Chicken Layer Feed Pellets — Premium Pick
- Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Backyard Chicken Feed — Best Value
- Purina Layena+ Omega 3 Formula – 10 Pound Bag — Omega-3 Specialist
- Non-GMO Whole Grain Layer Blend 16% — Herb-Infused Blend
- New Country Organics Corn-Free Classic Layer — Corn-Free Organic
- Waggin’ Train Layena Chicken Feed — Budget Entry
How To Choose The Best Chicken Feed For Winter
Winter feeding is a different game. Your hens need more energy to maintain body heat, and they often stop laying when light and nutrition drop. The right feed keeps both their health and your egg basket going through the coldest months.
Prioritize Protein and Fat Content
Hens naturally eat more feed in cold weather to fuel their metabolism. A feed with 16% to 18% protein and a slightly higher fat content helps them maintain body condition and egg production when temperatures drop below freezing.
Look for Added Calcium
Winter eggs can have thinner shells if hens aren’t getting enough calcium. Feeds that include oyster shell or a specific calcium boost — often called an “Oyster Strong System” — support strong eggshells when your flock needs it most.
Choose the Right Form
Pellets reduce waste in windy or damp coops. Crumbles are easier for hens to eat quickly, which helps them stay warm. Whole grain blends encourage natural foraging but may get picked over if your birds leave the less tasty bits behind.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Protein | Item Form | Item Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Layena Crumbles 50 lbs | Large flocks through deep cold | High Protein | Crumbles | 50 Pounds | Amazon |
| Small Pet Select Layer Pellets | Premium nutrition, no fillers | 18% | Pellet | 20 lb | Amazon |
| Prairie’s Choice Layer Formula | Non-GMO quality, moderate budget | 16% (Min.) | Crumble | 25 Pounds | Amazon |
| Purina Layena+ Omega 3 | Small flocks seeking Omega-3 eggs | High Protein | Pellet | 10 Pounds | Amazon |
| Wholesome Harvest Layer Blend | Holistic, herb-rich blend | 16% | Granule | 10lb | Amazon |
| New Country Organics Classic Layer | Corn-free organic feeding | 17% | Flake | 25 Pounds | Amazon |
| Waggin’ Train Layena Pellets | Budget-friendly standard feeding | — | Pellet | 25 Pounds | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Purina Layena Crumbles, Chicken Feed for Laying Hens, 50 lbs
The 50-pound sack that keeps a big flock fed through the worst of winter.
You get a complete, balanced formula in crumble form — a texture hens eat quickly in the cold. It includes added marigold extract, calcium, manganese, and trace minerals, so each hen gets the nutrients needed to keep laying when the thermometer drops. The crumbles contain essential amino acids that support body condition and egg production without you needing to mix supplements.
Multiple buyers report their birds “love it” and eat it “fast,” noting it is the “fairest price” for a large bag. At the full 50-pound size, this feed dominates the smaller bags on this list — it weighs 50 pounds, versus the 10-pound Purina Layena+ bag, making it the clear choice if you have multiple hens or want fewer shopping trips in winter weather.
What keeps hens happy
- 50-pound bag lasts a long stretch, reducing runs to the store.
- Added marigold extract supports egg yolk color.
- Crumbles are easy for hens to peck in cold temps.
One honest trade-off
- May contain synthetic additives per some keepers — not a fully natural whole-grain blend.
Reach for this if: you have a medium to large laying flock and want a dense, year-round complete feed in one big bag.
Look elsewhere if: you prefer a strictly organic or whole-grain mix with whole ingredients you can see.
2. Small Pet Select Chicken Layer Feed Pellets, 20 lb
A filler-free high-protein pellet with no corn or soy for premium winter nutrition.
At 18% protein from sunflower, pumpkin, and flax seeds, this feed packs more energy per scoop than typical 16% blends — exactly what a laying hen needs to stay warm and produce eggs in freezing weather. It also includes added calcium and probiotics for strong shells and digestive health.
Owners mention this quality feed produces “beautiful mango-hued yolks with buttery flavor.” Some note that the whole dried peas are too large for chicken beaks and suggest the maker switch to split peas. You can feed it dry or fermented, which helps reduce waste during winter when you keep the feeder inside the coop.
Top features for cold months
- No corn, soy, or unnecessary fillers — every ingredient serves a purpose.
- High protein and flax seeds support egg production and warmth.
- Can be fermented to boost nutrition and reduce droppings.
A few notes
- Whole peas remain a common complaint — some keepers crush them separately.
- Packaging sometimes arrives unsealed, leading to weight loss in transit.
Ideal for: keepers who want a clean, high-protein, filler-free layer feed and are willing to process whole peas.
skip it if: you need a straightforward grab-and-feed pellet with no extra prep.
3. Prairie’s Choice Non-GMO Backyard Chicken Feed – Layer Formula, 25lbs
A non-GMO 16% protein crumble that got one flock laying again after a warm-weather pause.
Prairie’s Choice is grown, milled, and packaged in the USA and uses no antibiotics, medications, or gluten. The 16% minimum protein level supports adult hens 16-18 weeks or older, and the crumble form works well in winter because it is easier for birds to eat than whole grains.
One buyer reports their “chickens stopped laying in warm January” and resumed “days after switching to this feed.” That real-world turnaround makes this a strong pick if your flock’s production dips in cold weather and you suspect the previous feed was the cause. Multiple long-term users say their girls are “still the best feed” after years of using it.
Why keepers choose it
- Non-GMO and antibiotic-free with clear labeling.
- Proven to restart egg production in some flocks.
- 25-pound bag is manageable for most backyard setups.
Be aware
- Some hens pick out the corn pieces first and leave other grains.
Best for: backyard keepers who want a reliable, non-GMO layer feed at a mid-range price point.
Not for: birds that are picky about eating whole corn bits or flocks needing a higher-than-16% protein level.
4. Purina Layena+ Omega 3 Formula – 10 Pound Bag
A concentrated 10-pound pellet that gives each egg 250mg of Omega-3.
This is a targeted feed for small flocks where egg quality matters. It is formulated to produce 250mg Omega-3 per large egg, making it the only feed on this list with a specific omega-3 output promise. The pellet form reduces waste and is Non-GMO and vegetarian, which some keepers prefer.
Customers note that their birds “thrive and produce eggs that are thick shelled and have a dark yellow yolks.” The trade-off is the 10-pound weight — at 10 pounds versus the 50-pound Purina Layena Crumbles bag, it goes fast for a multi-bird flock in winter. Consider this if you have just a few hens or want to mix it as a supplement to a larger base feed.
Highlights
- Measurable 250mg Omega-3 per large egg.
- Thick-shelled, dark-yolk eggs consistent with buyer reports.
- Full pellet form minimizes mess in the coop.
Consider this
- 10-pound bag is expensive per pound and won’t last a medium flock through winter.
Reach for it if: you have a small backyard flock and want the highest egg-quality boost you can get from a bagged feed.
More volume needed: a larger flock will burn through this bag fast — buy the 50-pound Layena Crumbles for winter sustainability.
5. Non-GMO Whole Grain Layer Blend 16% – Wholesome Harvest, 10lb
A holistic mash of cracked grains, herbs, and oyster shells for winter immunity and eggshell strength.
This blend features whole grains (cracked corn, soybeans, wheat, barley) plus essential oils, herbs, and oyster shell for calcium. It also includes probiotics for digestive health and linseed (flax) oil for omega-3. Keepers say its 16% protein and included oyster shell mean you may not need a separate calcium supplement.
Reviewers point out their chickens “go crazy for this” and note that a 10lb bag is perfect for small flocks or bantams, though larger operations would need bulk. One reviewer noted the “16% protein, includes oyster shells for calcium” as a core draw. Several customers have ordered this feed ten times or more, citing “consistent quality, no mold or rancid feed.”
Why keepers stay loyal
- Non-GMO whole grains, herbs, and probiotics in one bag.
- Pre-added oyster shell simplifies winter feeding.
- Granule form encourages natural scratching.
One caveat
- 10lb bag is pricey for flocks of more than a few birds.
Great for: small-flock owners who want a premium holistic feed with built-in calcium and herbs.
Not ideal for: large flocks where a 10lb bag disappears too fast — consider a larger non-GMO layer bag instead.
6. New Country Organics Corn-Free Classic Layer Chicken Feed, 25lbs
A corn-free, soy-free 17% protein flake that helps hens beat the winter slump.
This is a high-protein, low-starch formula — the maker specifically says it “keeps your birds cooler in hot climates,” but the high protein (17%) and lack of corn also help birds maintain body condition without the empty carbs. It includes probiotics and kelp for digestion and shell strength. The flake form soaks up moisture easily, and multiple buyers recommend soaking it overnight to eliminate powdery fines and reduce waste.
One long-term buyer reported their “birds are thriving: filled out, glossy feathers, strong/healthy” and noted consistent “1 egg/day per chicken” even in winter. Others say the feed absorbs water well for fermenting, which can keep hens entertained and fed during long coop days. Keep in mind the flake has significant fines (powder) in the bag, so soaking or wetting it is almost necessary for full use.
Winter benefits
- Corn-free and soy-free — no empty starch fillers.
- Kelp and probiotics support immune health and shell strength.
- 17% protein is higher than most standard layer feeds.
What to know
- High amount of powdery fines means soaking is recommended.
- Price per pound is premium compared to standard feeds.
Choose this if: you want a certified organic, corn-free feed for health-conscious winter feeding and don’t mind soaking flakes.
Pass if: you need a dry, neat, no-prep crumble or pellet for a standard feeder.
7. Waggin’ Train Layena Chicken Feed – Pellets (25 LB)
An affordable 25-pound pellet with the Oyster Strong System for shell strength.
The Waggin’ Train brand packages the same Purina Layena layer feed formula in a budget-friendly 25-pound bag. It includes the “Exclusive Oyster Strong System for Eggshell Strength,” which means your hens get extra calcium to combat winter shell thinning. The pellet form is less messy than crumbles and can stay in the feeder longer without spoiling.
Buyers consistently rate this 5 stars, saying their chickens “love it and lay fabulous eggs” and that the value for money is “great, the bag is huge.” One review mentions it as a 50-pound bag, suggesting some deliveries may vary in size. At this price tier, you get a dependable layer feed without the premium price of organic or herb-infused formulas.
What works
- Proven Purina formula with built-in calcium system.
- 25-pound bag is a solid size for mixed flocks.
- Pellet form reduces waste in wet winter conditions.
The catch
- Not Non-GMO or organic — standard feed formulation.
Grab this for: straightforward feeding on a budget with a reliable layer formula.
Opt for a different pick if: you specifically want Non-GMO, organic, or a higher protein percentage.
Understanding the Specs
Protein Percentage
Protein is the most important number in any chicken feed. In winter, hens need at least 16% protein (ideally 17-18%) to keep their body heat up and maintain egg production. Higher protein supports feather condition and muscle mass when the bird burns extra calories just to stay warm. A feed labeled “High Protein” often falls in the 16-18% range — check the guaranteed analysis on the bag for the exact number.
Item Form: Pellets vs Crumbles vs Whole Grain
Pellets are compressed cylinders that minimize waste and stay cleaner in a damp coop. Crumbles are a smaller, easier-to-eat form that hens can peck quickly — great for cold mornings when you want them to eat fast. Whole grain blends look more natural but birds may pick out the tastiest bits (corn, sunflower seeds) and leave less desirable grains behind, potentially leading to nutritional gaps. For winter, pellets or crumbles typically offer the most balanced and waste-free option.
Calcium and the “Oyster Strong system”
Laying hens need a lot of calcium to produce strong eggshells, especially in winter when they may not forage for grit and oyster shell outdoors. Feeds with added oyster shell or a “Oyster Strong System” provide this calcium directly in the ration. If your feed does not include it, you may need to offer a separate oyster shell supplement in a side dish.
Omega-3 Enrichment
Some layer feeds include flaxseed or linseed oil to boost the Omega-3 content of eggs. The Purina Layena+ formula guarantees 250mg of Omega-3 per large egg. If you sell eggs or want the highest nutritional quality for your family, an Omega-3 enriched feed adds value beyond basic maintenance.
FAQ
Do chickens need different feed in winter?
Will my hens stop laying completely in winter?
What is the difference between crumbles and pellets for winter feeding?
Can I feed whole grains to my chickens in winter?
How much feed does a laying hen eat per day in winter?
Do I need to add extra calcium in winter?
What is the best protein percentage for winter layer feed?
Can I feed my chickens fermented feed in winter?
Is corn bad for chickens in winter?
How do I store chicken feed during winter?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most flocks, the chicken feed for winter winner is the Purina Layena Crumbles 50 lbs because it delivers a complete, high-protein crumble in the largest, most cost-efficient bag — keeping your birds fed through the worst cold without constant trips to the store. If you want premium, filler-free nutrition with 18% protein and visible seeds, grab the Small Pet Select Layer Pellets. And for a backyard-friendly Non-GMO option that has proven to restart laying, the standout is the Prairie’s Choice Layer Formula.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
Related Guides
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.