Organic vs. Conventional Chicken Feed: What’s the Difference?
When you’re raising chickens, feed is one of your biggest ongoing choices — and expenses. Walk through any farm store and you’ll notice that many brands now offer both organic and conventional options. The price difference can be noticeable, so it’s worth understanding what sets them apart and what you’re really getting for your money.
What “Organic” Feed Really Means
Organic feed isn’t just a marketing term — it’s certified under strict USDA standards. That means:
- All grains and ingredients are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
- The feed contains no genetically modified (GMO) crops like corn or soy.
- No chemical additives or animal byproducts are allowed.
- It must be certified by an accredited organic agency, ensuring traceability from farm to feed bag.
For many backyard chicken keepers, the appeal is peace of mind — knowing that what their hens eat (and what ends up in their eggs) comes from natural, sustainable sources.
Conventional Feed: The Standard Option
Conventional chicken feed, on the other hand, is what most poultry operations and backyard flocks use. It’s typically made with standard grains like corn and soy that may be grown with fertilizers or pest control products.
Conventional feed isn’t “bad” — in fact, it’s nutritionally complete and often more affordable. Feed companies formulate these blends to meet all the nutritional needs of growing and laying birds. Many keepers find that their chickens thrive on it and lay just as well as those on organic diets.
Why Some Flock Owners Choose Organic
- Cleaner Ingredients, Fewer Chemicals
Organic feed avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which appeals to those who want a more natural food chain — especially if they eat or sell the eggs. - Environmental Sustainability
Organic farming emphasizes soil health, biodiversity, and reduced pollution, so it aligns with eco-friendly values. - Supporting Organic Agriculture
Buying organic feed supports farms that use non-GMO seed and sustainable practices — something many small-scale producers and homesteaders care deeply about.
Why Others Stick With Conventional
- Lower Cost
Organic feed can cost 30–50% more than conventional. For large flocks, that price difference adds up fast. - Readily Available
Conventional feeds are widely stocked at most farm stores, while organic options may be harder to find in rural areas or come only in smaller bag sizes. - Comparable Results
In most backyard settings, chickens grow, lay, and stay healthy on either type of feed — provided it’s balanced and fresh. Many flock owners report no noticeable difference in performance.
A Middle Ground: “Natural” or “Non-GMO” Feeds
Some feed mills offer non-GMO or “natural” blends — not fully certified organic, but free from genetically modified grains and often made with fewer synthetic additives. These can be a good compromise between cost and clean ingredients.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to chicken feed, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Organic feed offers purity and sustainability, while conventional feed provides excellent nutrition at a lower price point.
If you’re raising birds for your family’s table or selling premium eggs at a market, organic feed might align better with your goals and values. But if your focus is healthy, happy chickens and consistent egg production, conventional feed can meet those needs just as well.
No matter what you choose, the real secret to a thriving flock is fresh feed, clean water, and good management — the rest is personal preference.