Why do Chickens need Grit?

Hermione Perry MSc The Little Feed Company

Chickens need two different types of grit in their diet. One to help with digestion of food, the other as a source of calcium.

Insoluble Grit

Chickens need grit because they don’t have teeth! Unlike us, chickens swallow their food whole – you have probably seen the excitement when they try to swallow an enormous worm – it is quite a challenge!

After swallowing, the chicken’s food enters the Crop. This is like an enlarged storage compartment. From there, the food enters the Gizzard, a muscular pouch which mixes and churns the food at the start of the digestive process. When we feed our chickens grit, and the grit reaches the Gizzard, it is used to help grind the food into smaller particles, just like our teeth would have done. Chickens therefore need to eat grit and small stones to aid the digestion of their food.

Soluble Grit

The other type of grit, usually oyster shell, will dissolve in the digestive system releasing dietary calcium. Chickens need plenty of calcium as this gives egg shells their strength. Without a dietary source, the hens would resorb calcium from their bones, putting their overall health at risk. If your chickens are not laying as often as expected, or are producing soft shelled eggs, they could be lacking calcium in their diet.

Chickens also need extra calcium and protein for feather growth. Hens will often stop laying while moulting, or when newly rescued, as all their energy goes into feather growth rather than egg production.

To ensure your hens are eating enough soluble and insoluble grit, feed Gastro Grit. Unlike ordinary grit, Gastro Grit is extremely palatable and your hens will love to eat it – even like a treat! Packed with extra protein, yeast, herbs and seaweed, this is a tasty mixture with all the ingredients your hens need for beautiful feathers and delicious eggs.

www.thelittlefeedcompany.co.uk

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