Raising baby chicks starts with giving them the right nutrition. Chicks grow rapidly in their first few weeks, so they need high-protein, nutrient-rich feed to develop strong muscles, feathers, and immune systems.
With so many chick feeds on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. This guide breaks down the top chick feeds, highlighting their pros, cons, and what makes them ideal for your young flock.
What to Look for in Chick Starter Feed
✔ High Protein (18-22%) – Chicks need extra protein to support early growth. Lower protein levels can slow development.
✔ Medicated vs. Non-Medicated – Medicated feed contains amprolium, which helps prevent coccidiosis (a common disease in young chicks). Non-medicated feed is great for flocks vaccinated for coccidiosis or raised naturally.
✔ Crumble Form – Crumble feeds are small and easy to eat, perfect for baby chicks. Pellets are too large, and powders can be too fine.
✔ Essential Vitamins & Minerals – Look for calcium, phosphorus, and probiotics to support bone strength and gut health.
✔ Organic & Non-GMO Options – If you want chemical-free, pesticide-free feed, go for an organic or non-GMO brand.
Best Chick Starter Feeds on Amazon
1. Manna Pro Chick Starter Grower (Non-Medicated)
Best for: Backyard chicken keepers who want an affordable, high-quality starter feed
Manna Pro is a trusted name in poultry nutrition. Their Chick Starter Grower is non-medicated and packed with essential nutrients for strong, healthy growth.
✅ Pros:
- 18% protein for steady chick development
- Non-medicated for natural immunity building
- Fortified with vitamins & minerals for bone strength
- Budget-friendly compared to premium brands
❌ Cons:
- Not organic
- Some users report dusty crumbles
📌 Best for: Chicken keepers looking for a balanced, affordable feed without medication.
2. Purina Start & Grow Medicated Chick Feed
Best for: Chicks at risk of coccidiosis
If you’re worried about coccidiosis, Purina’s medicated chick feed contains amprolium, which helps prevent this deadly disease. It’s also highly digestible and fortified with probiotics for gut health.
✅ Pros:
- 20% protein for fast, healthy growth
- Medicated to protect against coccidiosis
- Prebiotics & probiotics for better digestion
❌ Cons:
- Not organic
- Medicated feed shouldn’t be given to vaccinated chicks
📌 Best for: Chicks raised in brooders or coops where coccidiosis risk is high.
3. Scratch and Peck Organic Chick Starter (Non-Medicated)
Best for: Organic, soy-free, and corn-free feeding
For those who want the most natural feed, Scratch and Peck’s Organic Chick Starter is USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, soy-free, and corn-free. It’s made with whole grains, which can also be fermented for added nutrition.
✅ Pros:
- 100% organic, non-GMO, soy-free, and corn-free
- Whole grain formula supports natural foraging behavior
- Can be fermented for better digestion
❌ Cons:
- More expensive than standard chick feeds
- Chicks may pick out grains, leading to waste
📌 Best for: Chicken keepers who prioritize organic, natural diets for their flock.
4. Kalmbach Feeds 18% Non-Medicated Chick Starter-Grower
Best for: Small farms and mixed poultry flocks
Kalmbach Feeds produces high-quality non-medicated chick starter, packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s ideal for those who raise chickens, ducks, and other poultry together.
✅ Pros:
- 18% protein for healthy growth
- Safe for chicks, ducklings, goslings, and turkey poults
- Non-medicated but fortified with essential nutrients
❌ Cons:
- Not organic
- Can be harder to find in some areas
📌 Best for: Mixed flocks with chickens, ducks, and geese.
5. Nature’s Best Organic Chick Starter Grower Feed
Best for: Organic-certified, non-GMO feeding
This USDA-certified organic chick feed is one of the best organic crumble options available. It’s soy-free and non-GMO, making it a great choice for natural, chemical-free feeding.
✅ Pros:
- 19% protein for strong early growth
- USDA organic & non-GMO certified
- Crumble form for easy eating
❌ Cons:
- More expensive than standard feeds
- May not be available in all regions
📌 Best for: Chicken keepers who want certified organic feed with strong nutrition.
Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Chick Feed: Which Should You Choose?
The main difference between medicated and non-medicated chick feed is amprolium, a drug that prevents coccidiosis (a common, deadly intestinal disease in chicks).
✔ Choose Medicated Feed if:
- Your chicks are not vaccinated for coccidiosis
- They are raised in crowded brooders or on the ground
- Your area has a history of coccidiosis outbreaks
✔ Choose Non-Medicated Feed if:
- Your chicks are vaccinated for coccidiosis
- You prefer a natural or organic approach
- You raise chicks in clean, controlled environments
How Long Should Chicks Eat Starter Feed?
🐣 0-8 Weeks: Chick Starter Feed (18-22% protein) for rapid growth.
🐥 8-16 Weeks: Grower Feed (16-18% protein) to maintain healthy development.
🐔 16+ Weeks: Layer Feed (16% protein + extra calcium) for egg-laying hens.
Pro Tip: If your flock includes roosters or mixed poultry, switch to all-flock feed instead of layer feed after 16 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Giving your chicks the best possible start ensures they grow into strong, healthy birds. Whether you prefer medicated, organic, or budget-friendly feed, there’s an option to suit your needs.
🏆 Best Overall: Manna Pro Chick Starter Grower – Affordable, high-quality, and packed with nutrients.
🏆 Best Medicated Feed: Purina Start & Grow Medicated – Protects against coccidiosis.
🏆 Best Organic Feed: Scratch and Peck Organic Chick Starter – 100% organic, soy-free, and whole grain.
🏆 Best for Mixed Poultry: Kalmbach Feeds Chick Starter-Grower – Safe for chicks, ducklings, and goslings.
🏆 Best Crumble Option: Nature’s Best Organic Chick Starter Grower – USDA-certified organic in crumble form.
Before purchasing, check prices and availability on Amazon or your local feed store.