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Chicken Feed Mix Calculator — Custom Protein Blend

Mix custom feed with the right protein target for every flock stage

Blend Protein

17.3%

Target

16%

Cost/lb

$0.19

Monthly

$17.28

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Blend Protein

17.3%

Target: 16% (+1.3%)

Cost/lb

$0.19

Monthly

$17.28

Consumption

Daily (total)3 lbs
Weekly21 lbs
Monthly90 lbs

Batch Breakdown (50 lbs)

Corn (cracked)25 lbs
Soybean Meal10 lbs
Wheat7.5 lbs
Black Sunflower5 lbs
Alfalfa Meal2.5 lbs

What You'll Need

JVR Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener with Timer

JVR Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener with Timer

$120-$1704.3
View on Amazon
KEBONNIXS 12 Egg Digital Incubator

KEBONNIXS 12 Egg Digital Incubator

$40-$604.4
View on Amazon
JVR Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener with Timer

JVR Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener with Timer

$120-$1704.3
View on Amazon
KEBONNIXS 12 Egg Digital Incubator

KEBONNIXS 12 Egg Digital Incubator

$40-$604.4
View on Amazon

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Example Calculations

112 Layers, Standard Mix

Inputs

StageLayer
Birds12
Batch50 lbs
Corn50%
Soybean Meal20%
Wheat15%

Result

Blend Protein15.4%
Cost/lb$0.19
Monthly Feed90 lbs
Monthly Cost$17

Protein = (50×8.5 + 20×44 + 15×12 + 10×16 + 5×17) / 100 = 15.4%.

225 Broilers, High-Protein Mix

Inputs

StageBroiler
Birds25
Batch100 lbs
Corn40%
Soybean Meal30%
Fish Meal10%

Result

Blend Protein22.2%
Cost/lb$0.23
Monthly Feed225 lbs
Monthly Cost$52

Protein = (40x8.5 + 30x44 + 10x60 + 10x16 + 10x17) / 100 = 22.2%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

What protein percentage do chickens need?

Chicks need 20% protein, growers need 16%, layers need 16%, and broilers need 20–22%. Too little protein causes poor growth and low egg production. Too much is wasteful and can stress kidneys.

  • Chicks (0–8 weeks): 20% protein starter
  • Growers (8–18 weeks): 16% protein developer
  • Layers (18+ weeks): 16% protein with calcium
  • Broilers (meat birds): 20–22% protein
  • Molting hens: bump to 18–20% temporarily
StageProtein %Feed/Bird/DayKey Nutrient
Chick20%0.03 lbsProtein
Grower16%0.06 lbsBalance
Layer16%0.25 lbsCalcium
Broiler22%0.30 lbsProtein
Q

What ingredients go in homemade chicken feed?

A basic layer feed is 50% corn, 20% soybean meal, 15% wheat, 10% sunflower seeds, and 5% supplements. Corn provides energy, soybean meal provides protein, and sunflower seeds add fat and protein.

  • Corn: 8.5% protein, cheap energy base
  • Soybean meal: 44% protein, primary protein source
  • Wheat: 12% protein, good texture
  • Oats: 11% protein, fiber for digestion
  • Fish meal: 60% protein, expensive but potent
  • Sunflower seeds: 16% protein, healthy fats
Q

How much does a chicken eat per day?

A laying hen eats about 0.25 lbs (4 oz) per day or 1/4 lb. A flock of 12 layers eats 3 lbs per day, 21 lbs per week, or about 90 lbs per month. Broilers eat more: 0.3 lbs per day.

  • Layer hen: 0.25 lbs/day (1/4 lb)
  • Broiler: 0.30 lbs/day
  • Chick: 0.03 lbs/day
  • 12 layers: ~90 lbs/month
  • A 50 lb bag feeds 12 layers for ~17 days
Q

Is homemade feed cheaper than store-bought?

Homemade feed typically costs $0.15–$0.22/lb vs $0.25–$0.40/lb for commercial feed. The savings add up: for 12 layers eating 90 lbs/month, homemade saves $5–15/month. Buying ingredients in bulk maximizes savings.

  • Commercial layer feed: $0.25–$0.40/lb
  • Homemade mix: $0.15–$0.22/lb
  • 12 layers save $5–15/month with homemade
  • Buy corn and soybean meal in 50 lb bags for best price
  • Factor in mineral/vitamin premix cost (~$0.02/lb)

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Last Updated: Mar 20, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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