Feed is one of the most important factors that influence animal health, productivity and long-term outcomes. There are many considerations to choosing the right one, and the choice often comes down to organic versus non-organic feed. While both options offer numerous benefits for your animals, they may yield different results.
How Does Organic Feed Compare to Non-Organic Feed in Terms of Results?
Non-organic feed is made from genetically modified grains that can tolerate the highest levels of pesticides and herbicides. Sometimes called conventional feeds, it’s usually the most affordable option and widely used in large-scale food production.
Organic feed uses ingredients grown without synthetic chemicals or genetically modified crops (non-GMO). In the U.S., this type of feed should be USDA certified, which means it meets strict federal standards for soil health, pest control, animal care and approved ingredients.
Quality
When it comes to meat quality, organic feed doesn’t automatically mean higher protein or faster growth. However, some studies have found that animals raised with organic standards — which include eating 100% organic feed — throughout their lives have healthier fat profiles, which can reduce consumers’ cardiovascular risk.
Cost
Non-organic feed is designed for efficiency and consistency. It supports predictable growth rates and uniform results, which is why it’s widely used in large-scale operations. If your goal is to get maximum output with the lowest cost, non-organic feed might be the right choice for you.
Environmental Impact
Organic feed supports farming methods that reduce chemical use and protect soil health. Since it’s made from crops grown without artificial fertilizers, it avoids many of the environmental issues associated with excessive nitrogen use. The production of synthetic fertilizers also relies heavily on fossil fuels, using an estimated 3% to 5% of global natural gas, which contributes to environmental damage and climate impact.
3 Leading Brands Offering Quality Organic Feed
Organic feed is becoming a popular choice. Market research shows the global organic feed market is expected to grow from around $12 billion in 2025 to $18.56 billion by 2030. Among the many brands available, here are the top three choices.
1. Nature’s Best Organic Feeds
Nature’s Best Organic Feeds is manufactured by Kreamer Feed, a family-owned mill in central Pennsylvania that has been operating since 1947. It remains among the best for several reasons, including its transparency and use of premium ingredients. Every batch has clear USDA-Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified labels, so you can trust the brand in what goes into the feed.
The brand is committed to clean, natural nutrition the way nature intended. The feed is non-medicated and doesn’t contain animal by-products, added growth hormones or antibiotics. Instead, Nature’s Best Organic Feeds uses soy as a plant-based protein to support healthy growth and development.
The feed is specifically formulated for each animal type and life stage, which means protein levels vary. For example, its Organic Meat Bird Pellets contain 20.5% protein, while Organic All Stock Sweet Feed Pellets provide 14% protein.
Key Features
- Clean nutrition with no added hormones, antibiotics and medication
- Available in both bagged and bulk quantities
- Feed options for cattle, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more animals
2. Scratch and Peck Feeds
Scratch and Peck Feeds is another well-known name in organic farming, known for providing organic nutrition for poultry, specifically chickens and ducks. It’s USDA-Certified Organic and has received Non-GMO Project verification. To produce wholesome, nutrient-dense feed while maintaining high standards for animal welfare and environmental responsibility, it sources its ingredients from local farmers.
The brand offers high-protein feed with varying protein levels, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your seasonal needs. Formulas may vary slightly depending on grain availability, but commonly include organic wheat, organic peas, organic barley, fish meal, organic flaxseed meal and organic rice protein.
Scratch and Peck Feeds also offers oyster shell layer feed to support laying hens. It contains high calcium, which is essential for healthy egg production.
Key Features
- Subscription service with weekly, monthly and custom options
- Feed specifically formulated for chicken and duck
- Various protein levels for seasonal needs
3. Modesto Milling
Modesto Milling is an independent, certified organic feed mill in central California with a long history of organic production. The company received its first organic certification and was the first organic grain processor in the area. Today, it produces organic feed for poultry, horses, livestock and pets, with formulas designed for every life stage.
The brand only uses certified organic ingredients, along with carefully selected herbs and essential oils such as garlic, anise, rosemary and thyme. It designs every feed to support digestion and the overall balance of farm animals. For horses, the organic feed is scientifically formulated to complement forage-based diets.
Modesto Milling is very accessible for different needs because its feed is available in multiple sizes, from bags to bulk orders.
Key Features
- Easy to find, with retailers across the country
- Offers customer-formulated mixes with a three-ton minimum order
- Produces its own soybean meal and oil
Considerations When Choosing the Top Feed Brands
With many organic feed options available, it’s crucial to separate marketing claims from verified standards. The brands featured in this article offer USDA-certified organic feed, as well as those that have been verified by the Non-GMO Project. That means the brands meet strict federal standards for farming and production.
The shortlisted feed brands also have a clear explanation of what goes into their feed and how they formulate their products. They have established track records, reliable distribution and positive recognition among farmers and animal owners. Nature’s Best Organic Feeds, Scratch and Peck Feeds, and Modesto Milling are dependable providers.
Making the Right Choice for You
Organic feed is generally regarded as the better option, but the right feed is the one that matches your goals. Purchase it from reputable and certified brands for the health and well-being of your animals.
