Many backyard chicken keepers love to treat their flock with fresh vegetables, which raises the question: can chickens eat kale? The answer is yes — kale is safe and healthy for chickens when fed in moderation. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium and antioxidants that support strong immune systems and better egg quality. Chickens enjoy both raw and lightly cooked kale leaves, and it makes an excellent supplement to their regular feed.
However, while kale is nutritious, it should only be a treat and never replace a balanced poultry feed. Too much can reduce absorption of calcium due to oxalates. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of feeding kale to chickens and review the best complementary feeds and treats to keep your flock thriving.
Quick Picks: Best Safe Alternatives and Complements to Kale
- Best Overall: Purina Layena Crumbles – A complete 16% protein daily feed for laying hens.
- Best Budget: Whole Oats for Poultry – Affordable grain that balances leafy greens like kale.
- Best Premium: Grubblies Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae – Protein and calcium-rich insect treat for stronger eggs.
Buyer’s Guide: Kale and Chickens
Before tossing kale to your flock, here’s what you should know:
- Safe & Nutritious: Kale provides vitamins, calcium, and antioxidants that support chicken health.
- Raw or Cooked: Chickens can eat kale raw or lightly steamed. Avoid oils, butter, or seasoning.
- Moderation: Too much kale can interfere with calcium absorption, so feed as a treat only.
- Balance: Always pair leafy greens with high-protein feed or insect snacks.
- Variety: Mix kale with other safe greens like lettuce, spinach (in small amounts), and clover.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Purina Layena Crumbles
Who it’s for: Owners who want a complete daily ration to balance occasional kale treats.
Key Benefits:
- 16% protein formula
- Calcium for strong eggshells
- Supports consistent laying
Pros:
- Trusted poultry brand
- Convenient crumble form
- Much healthier than overfeeding greens
Cons:
- Not organic
- Contains soy
Final Verdict: A reliable daily feed to ensure hens stay healthy. Check price on Amazon.
2. Grubblies Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Who it’s for: Owners who want a premium protein and calcium boost alongside leafy greens.
Key Benefits:
- High protein for feather health
- Extra calcium for stronger eggs
- Sustainable insect-based nutrition
Pros:
- Chickens devour them
- Safer protein than table scraps
- Balances kale’s low protein
Cons:
- Premium cost
- Treat, not a full diet
Final Verdict: A premium treat that complements kale perfectly. Check price on Amazon.
3. Whole Oats for Poultry
Who it’s for: Owners looking for a cheap, safe scratch grain to serve with greens.
Key Benefits:
- Budget-friendly grain option
- Encourages natural scratching
- Balances out leafy greens
Pros:
- Cheap and filling
- Readily available
- Chickens enjoy it
Cons:
- Not protein-rich
- Shouldn’t replace feed
Final Verdict: A cost-effective supplement alongside kale. Check price on Amazon.
4. Kalmbach Feeds All Natural Layer Crumbles
Who it’s for: Keepers who want an all-natural complete feed instead of relying too heavily on vegetables.
Key Benefits:
- All-natural formula
- Balanced protein and calcium
- Supports overall health and egg production
Pros:
- Trusted poultry nutrition
- Healthier than greens alone
- Convenient crumble form
Cons:
- Costs more than kitchen scraps
- Requires storage space
Final Verdict: A strong base feed that ensures hens thrive. Check price on Amazon.
5. Manna Pro Harvest Delight Poultry Treat
Who it’s for: Owners who want a safe enrichment mix alongside greens like kale.
Key Benefits:
- Mix of grains, peas, carrots, and seeds
- Encourages pecking behavior
- Provides variety missing in greens alone
Pros:
- Nutritious and fun
- Boosts yolk color
- Chickens love it
Cons:
- Not a complete ration
- More expensive than homegrown kale
Final Verdict: A fun enrichment snack to mix with kale. Check price on Amazon.
6. Small Pet Select Organic Scratch Grains
Who it’s for: Keepers who prefer organic enrichment instead of random table scraps.
Key Benefits:
- Organic corn, wheat, and barley
- Encourages scratching behavior
- Non-GMO and safe
Pros:
- Certified organic
- Flock enrichment
- Balances kale’s low calorie content
Cons:
- Not a full diet
- Higher cost than scraps
Final Verdict: A wholesome organic treat to complement kale. Check price on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Layena Crumbles | 16% protein daily feed | 40 lb bag | Check Price |
| Grubblies Soldier Fly Larvae | Protein + calcium treat | 5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Whole Oats | Budget bulk grain | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Kalmbach Crumbles | All-natural complete feed | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Manna Pro Harvest Delight | Grain & veggie mix | 2.5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Organic Scratch Grains | Organic corn, wheat, barley | 25 lb bag | Check Price |
FAQ: Chickens and Kale
1. Can chickens eat kale?
Yes, kale is safe and nutritious for chickens when fed in moderation.
2. Is raw or cooked kale better?
Both are fine. Just avoid oils, butter, or seasoning.
3. Can kale replace chicken feed?
No. Kale is a treat, not a complete diet. Chickens need balanced feed for health and egg production.
4. How often can I feed kale?
A few leaves a few times a week is safe. It should not exceed 10% of their diet.
5. What other leafy greens are safe?
Lettuce, clover, spinach (in small amounts), and Swiss chard are safe alternatives.
Conclusion
So, can chickens eat kale? Yes! It’s a nutritious leafy green that provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, kale should only be fed in moderation and never replace complete feed. Pairing kale with protein-rich treats like mealworms or balanced layer feed ensures your flock stays healthy and productive.
By feeding kale safely alongside proper feed and supplements, you’ll enjoy healthier hens, stronger eggs, and happier chickens.
Special Guide for Coop Owners
Feeding is only one part of raising backyard chickens. For a complete success system, we recommend:
Backyard Eggs: The #1 Guide in the US
- Step-by-step coop building instructions
- Noise and smell control strategies
- Beginner-friendly flock routines
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