Purina Layena Crumbles Chicken Feed for Laying Hens - Strong Shells

In this review of Purina Layena Crumbles, the bottom line is straightforward: this 50 lb feed is aimed at backyard and small flock owners who want a balanced, research-backed ration that supports egg production and shell strength. The reviewer found the blend useful for hens once they reach 18 weeks, with a clear emphasis on high calcium levels and added ingredients like marigold extract, prebiotics and probiotics that contribute to overall bird health and egg quality. If strong shells and a complete daily diet matter most, this formula delivers those core benefits.

Key Features

• Balanced 16% Protein: Provides the steady protein level needed to sustain healthy laying performance without excess for adult hens.
• High Calcium with Oyster Strong System: Includes oyster shell as a larger particle calcium source to help hens form stronger egg shells when they need it most.
• Added Marigold Extract: Marigold extract helps support egg yolk color and contributes antioxidants to the diet.
• Prebiotics, Probiotics and Yeast: Supports digestive health and nutrient absorption for consistent feed efficiency and bird condition.
• Key Vitamins and Trace Minerals: Formulated with vitamins A, D and E plus manganese and other trace minerals for bone, immune and reproductive health.

Who It's For

Purina Layena Crumbles is best for small-scale and backyard flock owners who want a single, complete feed for hens 18 weeks and older. It suits those focused on egg production, shell strength and yolk quality and who prefer a feed backed by research and recognizable ingredient features like oyster shell and marigold extract.

Those with specialty needs such as non-laying birds, medicated feed requirements, or custom grain-mix programs may want alternatives tailored to chicks, growers, or birds with specific health prescriptions. This is a laying hen ration rather than a general-purpose grain blend.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Complete, balanced formula that meets laying hens' nutrient needs for steady production.
• Oyster Strong System provides a longer-lasting calcium source to support stronger shells.
• Digestive support from prebiotics, probiotics and yeast helps birds utilize nutrients efficiently.
• Includes antioxidants and marigold extract to support yolk color and bird health.

Cons

• Formulated specifically for layers 18 weeks and older, so not suitable as a starter or grower feed.
• Bag size and single formula may not suit very small flocks that need medicated or specialized rations.

Specifications

Brand	Purina
Product	Layena Crumbles Chicken Feed for Laying Hens
Bag Weight	50 lb
Protein Level	16%
Calcium Source	Oyster Strong System (oyster shell)
Special Ingredients	Marigold extract, prebiotics, probiotics, yeast
Vitamins & Minerals	Key levels of vitamins A, D, E; manganese and trace minerals

Our Verdict

Purina Layena Crumbles is a sensible, research-backed choice for owners who want a ready-to-use laying feed that emphasizes shell strength and overall hen health. For flocks of adult layers it offers strong value through a balanced nutrient profile and targeted additives like oyster shell and digestive supports; those needing starter, medicated, or highly specialized feeds should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should hens start on this feed?
Use for hens once they reach 18 weeks of age, when birds transition into laying and need the formula's higher calcium and balanced nutrients.

Does the feed help egg shell strength?
Yes, the Oyster Strong System supplies a larger particle oyster shell calcium source intended to remain in the digestive tract longer to support shell formation.

Are there digestive supports included?
Yes, the formula includes prebiotics, probiotics and yeast to support gut health and improve nutrient absorption.