What Commercial feeds for chickens are very expensive find some local substitutes these that require simple methods of preparation what observation can you give?

Here are some potential substitutes for commercial chicken feeds, along with simple methods of preparation and observations:

1. Kitchen Scraps:

- Preparation: Collect vegetable and fruit peelings, leftover cooked rice or bread, eggshells, etc., from your kitchen.

- Observations: Kitchen scraps provide a variety of nutrients and are a great way to reduce waste. However, it's essential to avoid feeding spoiled food and meat products to chickens.

2. Grains and Seeds Mix:

- Preparation: Mix cracked corn, wheat, barley, milo, or other available grains and seeds in a 50:50 ratio.

- Observations: This mixture is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Chickens generally enjoy these mixed grains and seeds.

3. Fortified Leftover Rice or Bread:

- Preparation: Cook rice or bread and add nutritional supplements like bone meal or crushed oyster shells for calcium.

- Observations: Fortified rice or bread can provide essential nutrients, but feeding too much may cause digestive issues if not balanced with other feed ingredients.

4. Vegetable Greens and Forages:

- Preparation: Offer fresh, chopped greens like cabbage, lettuce, kale, spinach, or grasses from your garden.

- Observations: Greens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, encouraging healthy digestion. They can also keep your chickens entertained as they forage for these treats.

5. Crushed Eggshells:

- Preparation: Dry and crush eggshells, then mix them with their regular feed.

- Observations: Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, crucial for strong eggshell formation.

6. Fermented Grains or Feed:

- Preparation: Soak grains or mixed feed in water for a few days until it ferments slightly.

- Observations: Fermented feeds may improve the digestibility of nutrients and help balance gut microflora in chickens.

7. Sprouted Seeds:

- Preparation: Soak seeds like wheat, barley, or legumes in water for a few days until they sprout.

- Observations: Sprouted seeds are rich in enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, promoting overall chicken health and egg quality.

8. Yogurt or Buttermilk:

- Preparation: Offer plain yogurt or buttermilk as a treat or add a small amount to their regular feed.

- Observations: Yogurt and buttermilk provide probiotics that support gut health and may enhance nutrient absorption.

Overall, these substitutes allow for cost-saving and locally available options for feeding chickens. However, it's essential to maintain a balanced and varied diet to ensure your chickens receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and egg production. Always observe your chickens' response to these alternatives and adjust their diet as needed.