How much protein does a chicken need in a day?

[Atl_Mom]

I'm going to get away from soy (because of the phytoestrogens) in chicken feed and in my food. The one brand of soy-free laying pellets that I found has aluminum in it. That's no good either. My idea is to feed an organic 5 grain scratch and superworms for protein. They also free range and get fruits/veggies and some leftovers. So, I'm trying to determine how many superworms to give them everyday to meet their protein needs. I only have two hens.

 

[digitS']

I don't know what superworms are but imagine that they are a mealworm. There might be protein info out there on mealworms.

The minimum crude protein requirements for pullets usually read something like:

0-6 weeks 20%
6-14 weeks 16%
14-22 weeks 12%

laying hens 16%

Poultry Science, Mississippi State University

Steve

 

[digitS']

I often overlook the title of a post

. . . sorry.

You were asking, "How much protein does a chicken need in a day?" Not, what percentage protein should her feed be

.

"Research indicates that light breed hens require at least 17 grams of well-balanced protein per day." my emphasis
Alabama Cooperative Extension System

They are talking leghorn types.

Steve