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Scratch and Peck Feeds

Organic layer and grower mash, organic scratch, BSF grubs, oyster shell and starter and layer grit from Scratch and Peck Feeds, compared by listed type, protein and bag size.

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What Scratch and Peck makes

Scratch and Peck Feeds, based in Washington State, makes organic whole-grain feeds sold as mash rather than pellets, and suggests fermenting them. In our catalogue:

  • Complete feeds: Organic Layer Mash at 16% protein and Organic Grower Mash at 17%, both in 10 lb bags.
  • Scratch: Organic 3-Grain Scratch (10% protein) and Organic Scratch + Corn (9%), 10 lb each. These are treats, not complete feeds.
  • Treats: Grubs dried black soldier fly larvae, 20 oz.
  • Supplements: oyster shell (4 lb), and insoluble grit in starter and layer sizes (7 lb each).

Who Scratch and Peck suits

Scratch and Peck suits keepers who want organic, whole-grain feed and do not mind a bit more work. Mash is more likely to be scattered than pellets, so a port or treadle feeder helps, and fermenting it as the maker suggests can cut waste. The 10 lb bags suit small flocks and keep feed fresh. Layer mash is for hens laying or about to lay; growing birds stay on grower until about 18 weeks or the first egg.

Offer oyster shell free-choice to layers, and grit to any bird that eats scratch, treats or forage. Chicks need the starter size.

Alternatives from other brands

Kalmbach sells organic layer crumbles in a 35 lb bag; Mile Four makes organic layer and chick starter mash; Manna Pro and Purina offer conventional layer feed in small and large bags. For grubs and mealworms, Happy Hen Treats and Manna Pro are the usual comparisons.

See best layer feed, mealworms vs BSF larvae, feed and supplements and the feed and egg cost calculator.

Scratch and Peck Feeds: questions

Is Scratch and Peck layer feed a complete feed?
The Organic Layer Mash is a complete layer ration at 16% protein. Scratch grains are treats and should stay a small part of the diet.
Do I have to ferment Scratch and Peck mash?
No. You can feed it dry; fermenting is optional and the maker describes how on its bags and site.
What grit size do chicks need?
Chick or starter-size grit, such as Scratch and Peck Starter Grit, once chicks eat anything besides starter feed.
Can ducks eat Scratch and Peck feed?
Check the label for waterfowl use, and make sure ducklings get enough niacin; a waterfowl or all-flock feed is the usual choice.