Many chicken keepers love sharing leftovers with their flock, which brings up the question: can chickens eat mashed potatoes? The answer is yes — but with important cautions. Plain mashed potatoes (boiled, no salt, butter, milk, or seasoning) are safe for chickens in small amounts. However, traditional mashed potatoes with butter, cream, salt, or garlic are not recommended, since those additives can upset digestion and even harm your birds.
Potatoes themselves can be part of a chicken’s diet, but only when cooked. Raw potato peels, especially green ones, contain solanine, a toxin dangerous to chickens. In this article, we’ll explain the pros and cons of mashed potatoes, what to avoid, and the best alternatives to keep your flock healthy.
Quick Picks: Best Safe Alternatives to Mashed Potatoes
- Best Overall: Purina Layena Crumbles – A complete 16% protein feed for hens.
- Best Budget: Whole Oats for Poultry – Cheap scratch grain that pairs well with veggie scraps.
- Best Premium: Grubblies Black Soldier Fly Larvae – High-protein, calcium-rich treat for strong eggs and healthy feathers.
Buyer’s Guide: Mashed Potatoes and Chickens
Here’s what you must know before giving mashed potatoes to your flock:
- Safe if Plain: Plain boiled or mashed potatoes are safe in moderation.
- Avoid Additives: Butter, milk, salt, cheese, and garlic are unhealthy for chickens.
- Cooked Only: Raw potato skins and green potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic.
- Moderation: Potatoes are starchy and can cause weight gain if overfed.
- Balance: Mashed potatoes should never replace balanced feed or protein sources.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Purina Layena Crumbles
Who it’s for: Owners wanting a complete feed to balance occasional scraps like potatoes.
Key Benefits:
- 16% protein supports egg production
- Added calcium for stronger shells
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals
Pros:
- Trusted poultry brand
- Convenient crumble texture
- Balances carb-heavy snacks
Cons:
- Not organic
- Contains soy
Final Verdict: A must-have complete feed. Check price on Amazon.
2. Grubblies Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Who it’s for: Keepers who want protein-rich treats to pair with starchy foods like potatoes.
Key Benefits:
- High protein for growth and molting
- Extra calcium for eggshell strength
- Eco-friendly insect protein source
Pros:
- Chickens devour them
- Balances starchy scraps
- Boosts egg production
Cons:
- Premium cost
- Treat only, not a full feed
Final Verdict: A premium protein snack. Check price on Amazon.
3. Whole Oats for Poultry
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious flock owners who want safe scratch grains alongside veggies.
Key Benefits:
- Cheap and filling
- Encourages natural scratching
- Balances soft treats like mashed potatoes
Pros:
- Affordable
- Chickens enjoy scratching
- Safer than overfeeding starchy foods
Cons:
- Not high in protein
- Not a complete ration
Final Verdict: A budget-friendly scratch grain. Check price on Amazon.
4. Kalmbach Feeds All Natural Layer Crumbles
Who it’s for: Owners who want an all-natural base feed for laying hens.
Key Benefits:
- All-natural ingredients
- Balanced protein and calcium
- Supports egg health and productivity
Pros:
- Trusted poultry brand
- More balanced than table scraps
- Convenient crumble feed
Cons:
- Costs more than leftovers
- Requires proper storage
Final Verdict: A healthy all-natural feed. Check price on Amazon.
5. Manna Pro Harvest Delight Poultry Treat
Who it’s for: Owners who want a treat mix that balances grains, veggies, and scraps.
Key Benefits:
- Grains, peas, carrots, and seeds
- Encourages natural pecking
- Boosts yolk color
Pros:
- Nutritious and safe
- Fun enrichment
- Better balance than just mashed potatoes
Cons:
- Not a daily ration
- Costs more than leftovers
Final Verdict: A great supplemental treat. Check price on Amazon.
6. Small Pet Select Organic Scratch Grains
Who it’s for: Keepers who want organic scratch grains to enrich diets alongside safe scraps.
Key Benefits:
- Organic corn, wheat, and barley
- Encourages natural scratching
- Non-GMO and chemical-free
Pros:
- Certified organic
- Wholesome variety
- Balances starchy scraps
Cons:
- Not a full diet
- Costs more than kitchen leftovers
Final Verdict: A wholesome organic option. 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 scratch grain | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Kalmbach Layer Crumbles | All-natural feed | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Manna Pro Harvest Delight | Grain & veggie treat mix | 2.5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Organic Scratch Grains | Organic corn, wheat, barley | 25 lb bag | Check Price |
FAQ: Chickens and Mashed Potatoes
1. Can chickens eat mashed potatoes?
Yes, if plain and cooked. Avoid butter, salt, milk, or garlic.
2. Can chickens eat raw potatoes?
No. Raw potato peels, especially green ones, contain solanine, which is toxic.
3. Are potato peels safe?
Only if boiled and not green. Otherwise, avoid them.
4. How much mashed potato is safe?
Just a small scoop per flock. It should remain an occasional treat.
5. What’s better than mashed potatoes?
Insect treats, complete feed, grains, and leafy greens provide more nutrition.
Conclusion
So, can chickens eat mashed potatoes? Yes, but only when they’re plain and fully cooked. Seasoned mashed potatoes with butter, milk, salt, or garlic are not healthy for chickens. Mashed potatoes should be a treat — not a daily food. For better nutrition, rely on quality poultry feed and safe protein snacks.
By balancing safe scraps with complete feed and protein-rich treats, you’ll keep your flock healthy, happy, and laying strong eggs.
Special Guide for Coop Owners
Feeding correctly is only one part of successful chicken care. For a full step-by-step guide, we recommend:
Backyard Eggs: The #1 Guide in the US
- Step-by-step coop building instructions
- Noise and smell control strategies
- Beginner-friendly flock care routines
Get this Meat Cookbook Now and start your healthy, clean muscle building right way