Comprehensive Guide to Feeding Grit to Pasture-Raised Chickens, Turkeys, and Poultry
This article originally appeared in APPPA Grit, Issue 83 (September/October 2014) written by Nathan Boggs. Edited for presentation on the web.
Feeding grit is essential for poultry health and efficiency. Lack of grit can increase feed consumption by up to 20%, while poultry that consume grit develop gizzards that are up to 50% larger than those of birds not fed grit. This larger gizzard acts as a more powerful masticating muscle, resulting in better digestion and nutrient absorption. The amount of grit needed varies depending on the poultry species, soil type, feed type, and forage availability.
The cost of grit is relatively low. For example, Gran-i-Grit costs approximately $78.50 per ton ($0.04 per pound or $1.96 per 50-pound bag). These prices are based on direct sales from Gran-i-Grit and are subject to change.
Feeding grit effectively involves providing the largest particle size your birds will eat in normal quantities. If birds overconsume grit, switch to a larger size. Grit should be fed free choice, as poultry will only eat as much as they need. You can offer grit separately or mix it into feed or grains at a ratio of 1:4 (grit to wheat). When mixing into feed rations, add grit at a rate of 0.5% to 0.75% of the total ration.
Introducing grit to young poultry requires care to avoid confusion with feed. For the first two days, sprinkle grit over their feed to help establish correct feeding habits. Alternatively, grit can be withheld entirely for the first two days and introduced free choice starting on day three. From this point, grit should always be available either in separate hoppers or mixed into their feed.
GRIT FOR LAYING HENS
For layers, grit consumption ranges from 1/6 to 1/3 pound per month (2 to 4 pounds per year), with the highest consumption occurring during early winter and feather formation. On average, a flock of 1,000 layers will need 1 to 2 tons of grit annually, costing $78.50 to $157. Feeding grit results in 7% to 9.6% greater egg production and a 6.3% to 7.1% decrease in feed consumption. Additionally, grit contributes to thicker eggshells and improved overall flock health. To maximize benefits, layers should consume both insoluble grit (granite) and soluble grit (such as oyster shells or limestone). Soluble grit consumption varies with egg production and averages 0.64 ounces per layer per week or 2.08 pounds per year.
For layers, grit feeding follows distinct stages. During the starter phase (weeks 1–3), introduce small grit particles appropriate for young birds. In the grower phase (weeks 4–7), transition to larger grit sizes to accommodate growing birds. From week 7 onward, when birds are in the developer and layer phases, provide the largest suitable grit size.
GRIT FOR BROILERS
For broilers, each bird will consume up to 1/20th of its diet in grit. A broiler eating 12 to 14 pounds of feed over its lifetime will consume approximately 0.6 to 0.7 pounds of grit. Budgeting 60 to 70 pounds of grit per 100 broilers will cost $2.36 to $2.75. Feeding grit improves feed conversion and weight gain, with birds potentially gaining up to one additional pound each, and contributes to overall flock health.
For broilers, grit should be fed in three key phases. During the starter phase (weeks 1–2), provide fine grit to match their small size. In the grower phase (weeks 3–6), increase the grit size to aid digestion as the birds grow. After week 6, continue feeding grit appropriate for their mature size.
For turkeys, grit feeding should align with their growth stages. In the grower phase (weeks 1–3), use fine grit particles. During the developer phase (weeks 4–8), transition to medium-sized grit. From weeks 9–14, as birds mature, switch to larger grit suitable for turkeys. Beyond week 15 in the turkey finisher phase, continue offering the largest appropriate grit size.
GRIT FOR TURKEYS
For turkeys, grit consumption can equal up to 1/5th of their diet. A turkey eating 60 pounds of feed during its lifetime may consume about 12 pounds of grit, potentially matching its carcass weight. Budgeting 12 to 16 pounds of grit per turkey, for a flock averaging 16 pounds dressed weight, will cost $0.47 to $0.63 per bird. Grit improves feed conversion, weight gain, and overall flock health in turkeys as well.
GRIT FOR WATERFOWL
For waterfowl, the schedule mirrors that of turkeys. Use fine grit during the grower phase (weeks 1–3). Transition to medium grit during the developer phase (weeks 4–8). From weeks 9–14, provide larger grit to support digestion. Beyond week 15, continue feeding the largest grit size suitable for mature waterfowl.
Incorporating grit into your poultry management practices is a simple and cost-effective way to improve digestion, feed efficiency, and overall flock health. By understanding the specific needs of your poultry and providing grit appropriately, you can support their growth and productivity while maintaining a healthy flock.
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