Feed accounts for up to 70% of total poultry production costs, making it the most critical factor in egg production. Many Kenyan farmers have discovered that formulating their own chicken feed can save money while maintaining egg quality and consistency.
This guide shows you how to mix a balanced layer feed using ingredients that are easy to find locally — like maize, omena, sunflower cake, and maize bran.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Layers
Layers need feed that promotes:
- High egg production and shell quality
- Strong immunity
- Sustained body weight
A good layer feed should contain:
| Nutrient | Function | Example Local Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | For body maintenance and egg production | Maize, sorghum, cassava, millet |
| Protein | For egg formation and feather growth | Sunflower cake, cottonseed cake, omena, soya beans |
| Calcium & Phosphorus | For eggshell formation and bone strength | Limestone, bone meal |
| Vitamins & Minerals | For overall health | Vitamin premix, greens, moringa leaves |
| Fibre | For digestion | Maize bran, wheat bran |
Example Layer Feed Formula (Per 100 kg)
| Ingredient | Quantity (kg) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Maize | 55 kg | Main energy source |
| Sunflower cake | 12 kg | Protein source |
| Maize bran | 10 kg | Fibre and energy |
| Omena (fish meal) | 8 kg | High-quality protein |
| Limestone | 8 kg | Calcium for eggshells |
| Bone meal | 3 kg | Phosphorus and calcium |
| Salt | 0.5 kg | Balances minerals |
| Vitamin-mineral premix | 0.5 kg | Essential vitamins and trace elements |
| Total | 100 kg | ✅ Balanced feed |
Mixing Procedure
- Weigh all ingredients accurately using a scale.
- Grind large particles (e.g., maize, omena) into a medium texture.
- Mix dry ingredients (maize, bran, cakes) in a clean drum or mixer.
- Add small ingredients (salt, premix) and mix thoroughly for 10–15 minutes until uniform.
- Store the feed in clean, dry sacks away from moisture and pests.
Feeding Schedule for Layers
| Age | Feed Type | Amount per Bird per Day |
|---|---|---|
| 0–8 weeks | Chick mash | 40–60 g |
| 8–18 weeks | Growers mash | 70–100 g |
| 18 weeks onward | Layers mash | 110–130 g |
Start giving layer feed two weeks before the expected onset of laying (around 18–20 weeks of age).
Tips for Successful Layer Feeding
✅ Always provide clean drinking water throughout the day.
✅ Add crushed eggshells or oyster shells to boost calcium levels.
✅ Avoid mouldy or contaminated ingredients.
✅ Mix feeds regularly in small batches to maintain freshness.
✅ Provide greens like sukuma wiki (kale) for natural vitamins.
Benefits of Making Your Own Layer Feed
- Saves up to 30–40% of feed costs
- Allows you to control ingredient quality
- Easy to adjust based on availability of local materials
- Improves egg yield and shell quality
Making your own layer feed using local ingredients in Kenya is cost-effective, nutritious, and sustainable. With careful mixing and clean handling, you can produce high-quality feed that supports consistent egg production and healthy birds year-round.
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