Purina Start & Grow Nutritionally Complete Medicated Chick Feed

In this review of Purina Start & Grow medicated chick feed, the bottom line is straightforward: this 25 lb bag is best for backyard poultry keepers and small farms who want a ready-to-feed, nutritionally complete starter crumble that supports healthy early growth. The single biggest reason to buy is the complete formulation that combines 18% protein, added lysine and methionine, and prebiotics/probiotics so chicks get the 38 required nutrients without extra supplements, while the medicated amprolium helps prevent coccidiosis during a vulnerable stage.

Key Features

• Medicated with amprolium: Helps prevent coccidiosis in young chicks without using antibiotics and is not impacted by the Veterinary Feed Directive.
• Complete nutrition: Formulated to provide the optimal combination of the 38 nutrients chicks need so no additional supplements are required during early growth.
• 18% protein with key amino acids: Enhanced with lysine and methionine to support muscle and skeletal development during rapid growth phases.
• Prebiotics and probiotics: Supports immune and digestive health so chicks can process feed efficiently and maintain resilience.
• Marigold extract added: Promotes brighter beak color and plumage, which some keepers appreciate for healthy-looking birds.

Who It's For

This feed is tailored for people raising day-old to growing chicks who want a single, ready-to-use crumble that covers nutrition and coccidiosis prevention. It is especially useful for hobbyists, small-scale farmers, and anyone who prefers the convenience of a medicated starter feed combined with immune and digestive support.

Those who should look elsewhere include keepers who want an organic or non-medicated starter, people raising breeds with very specific feed programs, or operations that require a custom ration; in those cases a different unmedicated or specialty feed would be more appropriate.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Complete, balanced recipe removes the need for extra supplements, simplifying early chick care.
• Medicated formula with amprolium helps prevent coccidiosis during the vulnerable early weeks.
• Added prebiotics and probiotics support digestive health and immune function.
• High protein with lysine and methionine supports strong muscle and skeletal development.

Cons

• Some customers note the price feels high compared with non-branded or bulk options.
• Because it is medicated, it is not suitable for those who specifically want a non-medicated or organic starter feed.

Specifications

Product	Start & Grow medicated chick feed crumbles
Bag weight	25 lb
Protein	18% protein
Medicated ingredient	Amprolium
Digestive support	Includes prebiotics and probiotics
Added extracts	Marigold extract for brighter beaks and plumage

Our Verdict

Purina Start & Grow medicated chick feed is a practical, well-balanced starter crumble for most backyard and small-scale growers who want a reliable, all-in-one feed that supports health and growth while preventing coccidiosis. It justifies its price for those who value convenience and a fully formulated ration, but buyers seeking organic or non-medicated options should choose an alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this feed medicated for coccidiosis?
Yes. It contains amprolium to help prevent coccidiosis and is not classified as an antibiotic under the Veterinary Feed Directive.

Do chicks need extra supplements with this feed?
No. The formula is designed to be complete and balanced with the 38 required nutrients, so additional supplements are generally not needed for normal growth.

Will this improve chick plumage color?
The feed includes marigold extract, which is added to encourage brighter beaks and plumage appearance over time.