Why Chicken Grit Is Essential for a Healthy Flock

If you're raising backyard chickens, you've likely heard the term grit tossed around—but what exactly is it, and why does it matter?

What Is Chicken Grit?

Chicken grit is a type of small, hard material—usually crushed stone or granite—that chickens eat intentionally. It stays in the gizzard (a muscular part of their stomach) and helps grind up food since chickens don’t have teeth to chew.

There are two main types of grit:

• Insoluble Grit (like granite): stays in the gizzard and aids digestion by grinding food.

• Soluble Grit (like crushed oyster shells): provides a source of calcium to support strong eggshells.

Why Grit Matters

Grit plays a critical role in your flock's health and digestion. Here’s why it’s important:

• Supports Digestion: Without grit, your chickens can’t properly break down grains, seeds, and other hard foods. This can lead to poor nutrient absorption and crop impaction.

• Reduces Health Issues: A healthy gizzard with the right amount of grit helps prevent digestive blockages and improves overall gut health.

• Improves Nutrient Uptake: Properly digested food means your chickens get more energy, vitamins, and minerals from what they eat.

• Essential for Free-Rangers & Scratch Feeders: If your birds are foraging or eating whole grains, grit isn’t optional—it’s essential.

When to Offer Grit

Even if your chickens are on commercial crumble or pellets, they’ll still benefit from having grit available—especially if they’re free-ranging or enjoying kitchen scraps and scratch grains. Grit should be offered in a separate dish, free-choice, so chickens can eat it as needed.

For laying hens, be sure to also provide crushed oyster shell or a calcium supplement to support strong eggshell production.

Find the Right Grit at Manning’s Feed and Seed

We carry high-quality grit options for chicks and adult birds, as well as oyster shell for your layers. If you’re unsure what your flock needs, just ask us—we’re happy to help!

Stop by Manning’s Feed and Seed to stock up on grit and everything else your flock needs to stay happy and healthy.

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