Dried black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have become a popular poultry treat due to their high protein and calcium content, which supports stronger eggshells, feather growth, and overall health. This guide highlights five widely available dried grub products that are well-suited for laying hens, ducks, and backyard birds. Each option emphasizes natural, non-GMO ingredients and convenient storage, making them easy to scatter in the coop or add to feed. Use this overview to compare benefits and choose the best BSFL treats for your flock.
Summary of chosen products:
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FCI GRUBS High Calcium, 10LB | FCI GRUBS | 60-100x more calcium than mealworms; high protein | Non-GMO, natural, resealable bag |
| Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO BSFL | Joyprotyn | 85x calcium; strong eggshells; 43% protein | Sustainably produced; eco-friendly |
| Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium | Fluker’s | Rich in calcium and protein; supports egg production | 100% natural; great for backyard birds |
| USA Grown Black Soldier Fly Larvae | PureGrubs | 85x calcium; 36–42% protein; USA-grown | No additives; plant-based diet |
| Hatortempt Chicken Feed & Treats | Hatortempt | 4% calcium; 36.4% protein; versatile use | Bulk 10 lb; for laying hens and poultry |
FCI GRUBS High Calcium, 10LB
FCI GRUBS High Calcium offers a dried BSFL option with significantly higher calcium than traditional mealworms. The product emphasizes natural, non-GMO ingredients and a resealable bag for easy storage. It is designed to support healthy feather growth, stronger eggs, and improved immune function while being simple to add to a feeder or scatter around the coop.
Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO BSFL
Joyprotyn promotes an 85x calcium advantage over mealworms and a high protein level (around 43%). This combination supports robust eggshells, bone health, and steady growth. The product highlights sustainable, plant-based production and aims to reduce environmental impact while delivering a nutritious, crispy snack for chickens, ducks, geese, and other backyard birds.
Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium
Fluker’s treats emphasize a premium balance of calcium and protein, crafted to support laying hens and overall poultry health. These dried soldier fly larvae are marketed as 100% natural, making them a solid choice for backyard flocks and hobbyists seeking nutrient-dense snacks that can supplement regular feed and promote healthy egg production.
USA Grown Black Soldier Fly Larvae
PureGrubs BSFL are 85x higher in calcium than mealworms and offer 36–42% protein. They are USA-grown and dried, with a commitment to a plant-based diet and minimal additives. This product emphasizes traceability and safety, aiming to support strong eggshells, healthy growth, and a resilient immune system in chickens and other poultry.
Hatortempt Chicken Feed & Treats
Hatortempt offers a 10 lb bulk option with 4% calcium and 36.4% protein. The product is positioned as a versatile protein source that can be mixed with regular feed to support laying hens’ egg production and feather quality. It can also be used as an engaging treat to encourage healthy scavenging behavior in a coop environment.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Calcium content: Higher calcium benefits eggshell strength, especially for laying hens. Compare calcium claims (e.g., 60-100x vs. 85x) when selecting a product.
- Protein level: Protein supports growth, feather development, and molting recovery. Look for products with protein ranges around 36–43% or higher.
- Source and processing: Prefer non-GMO, USA-grown or sustainably produced BSFL with clear ingredient labeling. Check for additives or preservatives.
- Storage and packaging: Resealable bags or sealed containers help maintain freshness. Consider shelf stability for outdoor storage in the coop area.
- Versatility: Some products are suitable for birds beyond chickens (ducks, geese, wild birds, reptiles). If you have mixed species, this may be a plus.
- Feeder integration: Choose options that are easy to add to feeders or scatter in the coop without mess or spoilage.
- Allergen and safety considerations: Ensure there are no artificial additives or fillers that could affect sensitive birds.
- Price and value: While prices aren’t listed here, evaluate cost per pound relative to calcium and protein content to determine best value.
Across these options, the primary differences lie in calcium intensity, protein content, production practices, and whether the product emphasizes eco-friendly sourcing. For flocks prioritizing eggshell quality, items with the highest calcium-to-weight ratio may be preferred. If feather quality and molt support are the focus, higher protein content is advantageous. Family-owned brands may offer more transparent production details, while larger brands can provide consistent availability.