Joel Salatin Chicken Feed Mix

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating your own chicken feed mix inspired by Joel Salatin's methods. By following these steps, you'll ensure your chickens receive a nutritious diet while also guaranteeing the freshness of the feed by milling it at home.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

To replicate Joel Salatin's chicken feed mix, you will need the following ingredients:

• Corn - 52%
• Roasted Soybeans - 29%
• Crimped Oats - 11%
• Feed Grade Limestone (Aragonite) - 1%
• Fertrell Nutri-Balancer - 3%
• Fish Meal - 3.5%
• Kelp Meal - 0.5%
• Fastrack Probiotic - 0.1%

Tips for Sourcing Ingredients

• Purchase organic or non-GMO ingredients when possible for better chicken health.
• Local feed stores often have bulk options, which can be more cost-effective.

Step 2: Measure Ingredients

Carefully measure each ingredient according to the percentages listed above. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy to ensure a balanced mix.

Practical Advice

• If you are making a smaller batch, adjust the amounts proportionally while maintaining the ratios.
• Keep a record of your measurements for future reference.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Combine all the measured ingredients in a large mixing container or bucket.

Mixing Tips

• Use a large spoon or shovel to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
• Make sure there are no clumps and that the mix has an even consistency.

Step 4: Mill the Feed

To ensure freshness, mill the feed using a home-based mill. This step helps achieve a finer texture and enhances the nutritional value.

How to Mill

• Pour the mixed ingredients into the mill according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Adjust the settings for the desired coarseness or fineness, depending on your chickens' preferences.

Step 5: Store the Feed

Once milled, store the chicken feed in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Storage Tips

• Label the containers with the date of preparation.
• Use within a few months for optimal nutrition.

Step 6: Monitor Chicken Health

Observe your chickens’ health and egg production after introducing the new feed. Adjust the mix if necessary based on their performance and preferences.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid sudden changes in diet; introduce the new feed gradually over a week.
• Monitor for any adverse reactions to new ingredients.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create a nutritious chicken feed mix that supports the health of your flock. Home milling not only ensures freshness but also allows you to customize the feed according to your chickens’ needs. Consider expanding your knowledge by exploring additional resources, such as Joel Salatin's book "Pastured Poultry Profits," for more insights into sustainable poultry farming.