Chicken feed in Switzerland: healthy and species-appropriate for your chickens

Chicken feed in Switzerland has a direct impact on the health, laying performance and well-being of the flock. Both nutrient requirements and feed access vary greatly between mountain regions with barren soils, fertile midland meadows and urban gardens. If you pay attention to balanced recipes, clean storage and species-appropriate feeding, you can prevent deficiency symptoms, feather pecking and drops in performance. This specialist article brings together practical knowledge on ingredients, feed plans and seasonal peculiarities in Swiss cantons - with orientation values on quantities and costs, tips on implementation on the farm, in the community and in the family garden as well as information on the Animal Welfare Ordinance (TSchV).

What is included in species-appropriate chicken feed in Switzerland?

Chicken feed in Switzerland combines four components: energy, protein, minerals and vitamins. Energy is usually provided by maize, wheat or barley. The protein comes from soy, sunflowers, rapeseed cake or - increasingly in demand - insect protein. Minerals such as calcium (for the egg shell) and sodium as well as trace elements (e.g. zinc, selenium) ensure performance and immunity. Vitamins A, D, E and B-complex stabilize metabolism and bones. In addition, omega-3 sources such as linseed support the quality of the yolk.

Basic building blocks: energy, protein, minerals, vitamins

Laying hens need laying hen feed formulated according to their needs with a balanced ratio of digestible crude protein and energy so that the metabolism can optimally combine egg formation and maintenance. Pullets need moderate protein for uniform growth, while chicks receive very easily digestible, fine chick feed. Complete feed is designed to meet requirements without further additives; supplementary feed supplements grain mixtures if specific nutrients are lacking.

Why grit and lime are essential

As chickens have no teeth, grit (small stones) crushes the grains in the gizzard. Lime (e.g. mussel shells) provides calcium for stable eggshells. Both should be available separately at all times. In free-range systems, animals may find additional particles, but controlled feeding in troughs or bowls remains important.

Water quality and drinking trough hygiene

In Switzerland, chicken feed cannot be effective without clean water. Clean drinking troughs daily, avoid biofilms and plan frost-free systems in the event of frost. As a guideline, water intake should be about twice as high as feed intake, and more in summer heat. Electrolyte or vitamin drinks can provide short-term support during periods of stress.

How do you choose the right chicken feed for chicks, pullets and laying hens in Switzerland?

The choice of the right chicken feed in Switzerland depends on the age, breed, type of housing and season. In free-range systems, animals absorb additional nutrients from pasture, herbs and insects, which influences the ration. In mountain and transitional seasons, energy-rich components are important to cover heat requirements, while in summer electrolytes and water access take priority. Organic chicken feed offers declared raw materials of controlled origin; the nutrient balance remains decisive.

Laying hen feed: keeping performance stable

Laying hen feed combines digestible protein with sufficient energy and a high calcium content. Amino acids such as methionine and lysine are considered to be limiting for feather and egg formation. As supplementary feed, linseed or hemp seed can specifically improve the fatty acid pattern in the egg. In small flocks, complete feed proves its worth as it ensures consistent quality.

Chick feed: a strong start in life

Chick feed is offered finely crushed or as crumbs to make it easier to eat. The higher protein content promotes muscle and feather development. Warmth, dry litter and clean access to the drinker are just as important as the quality of the ration. From week 6-7, a gradual switch to pullet feed can be made.

Pullets: Growing evenly

Pullet feed supports even growth without excessive fatness. Using too much energy too early can shorten the later laying period. Structure-rich components and activities (e.g. pecking stones, hay nets) promote gastrointestinal health and flock calm.

Regional peculiarities: What must be observed in Swiss cantons?

The Animal Welfare Ordinance (TSchV) sets framework conditions for keeping, feeding and employment. Municipalities and cantons can set additional requirements, e.g. for exercise areas, conservatories or feed hygiene. At higher altitudes, cold temperatures increase energy requirements - rations are formulated to be higher in energy and fat without neglecting the protein content. Farm stores and local mills often offer grain mixtures of regional origin.

Free-range farming, pasture and winter feeding

In summer, pasture provides additional vitamins, beta-carotene and insect protein. In winter, the proportion of pasture decreases, so the importance of a complete feed increases. Roughage such as alfalfa bales keep them occupied and provide crude fiber - helpful against feather pecking. The supply of salt and minerals must remain stable throughout the year.

Organic chicken feed and declaration

Organic chicken feed is based on raw materials from organic farming, often with a regional connection. Clear declarations of ingredients, amino acids and mineral content are important. Regardless of the label, it is important that the recipe meets the physiological requirements - particularly calcium and methionine for laying hens.

Feed plan for chicken feed in Switzerland: quantities, rhythm and costs

A practical feed plan keeps the flock vital and egg quality constant. As a guide, a laying hen consumes approx. 110-130 g of dry feed per day; dwarf breeds less, large breeds more. In free-range systems with lots of green fodder, the amount of dry feed is reduced; in winter it increases again. Regular weight checks and observation of the consistency of the droppings help with fine adjustment.

Amount of feed per hen - how much is sensible?

• Laying hens: approx. 110-130 g/day (orientation value), calcium content of the feed approx. 3.5-4.0 %.
• Pullets: approx. 80-100 g/day, moderate energy, crude protein approx. 15-17 %.
• Chicks: ad libitum with fine-textured chick feed, strictly observe feed hygiene.

Feeding rhythm and activity

Twice daily refilling prevents strong selection processes and keeps the feed fresh. Grain scatter in the run, picking blocks or vegetable morsels (e.g. pumpkin) serve as activity and reduce stress. Offer shell grit and grit separately. Check the water several times a day, especially on hot days.

Storage: Protect nutrients and avoid losses

1. 1 Store feed in a dry, cool and dark place; place bags on pallets to avoid condensation.
2. 2 Keep stocks small (approx. 4-6 weeks), vitamins and fats are sensitive to oxidation.
3. 3 Protect against pests by using tight garbage cans; check regularly for lumps, moths and mold.
4. 4 Clean feed troughs daily; remove old residues to prevent nutrient shifts.

Avoid common mistakes: What myths are circulating?

Kitchen scraps and bread - rarely and consciously

Kitchen scraps are acceptable as an activity in small quantities, but are no substitute for a balanced chicken feed. Bread contains a lot of starch, but few high-quality amino acids and minerals. Spicy leftovers, sweet and salty foods are unsuitable. Vegetable scraps without strong spices are more suitable.

Too much corn, too little protein

Corn is high in energy and popular, but lowers the protein density when given in large quantities. This can result in soft eggshells, loss of performance and fatty degeneration. A balanced grain mix and a defined proportion of protein carriers are essential, especially for laying hens in full production.

Additives: Vinegar, garlic and co.

Home remedies such as apple cider vinegar or garlic are occasionally used. They cannot replace feed hygiene and should only be used for a limited time, if at all. The basic ration, mineral supply, fresh water and stable hygiene remain decisive.

Case study from the community: From garden chickens to stable egg production

A young family in a Bernese municipality started with six laying hens in the garden. Initially, the eggs were irregular and occasionally had soft shells. After switching to a high-quality complete feed for laying hens, separate provision of shell lime and daily checks of the drinkers, production stabilized within three weeks. In addition, roughage and grain litter in the winter garden reduced feather pecking - an example of how chicken feed can be adapted in practice in Switzerland.

Sustainability and sources of supply: Think regional, feed smart

Swiss grain, by-products from oilseed processing and increasingly insect protein are the building blocks of modern rations. Short transportation routes and transparent declarations support sustainability. Reusable or low-paper packaging and proper storage reduce waste. Farm stores and regional mills offer flexible bag sizes for small flocks - keeping chicken feed fresh and nutrient-stable.