I Tested Mealworms for Chickens: The Best Treat for Healthy, Happy Hens
I’ve found that few treats spark as much curiosity among chicken keepers as meal worms for chickens. They’re small, protein-rich, and seem to bring out the happiest, most enthusiastic side of a flock almost instantly. Whether I’m looking to reward good behavior, add variety to a flock’s diet, or simply give my birds something they genuinely love, meal worms always come up as a popular option. In this article, I’ll explore why they’ve become such a favorite and what makes them an interesting addition to a chicken keeper’s routine.
I Tested The Meal Worms For Chickens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound)
Classic Flock 11 lb Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL is a high Calc-Rich Chicken Feed with More Calcium Than mealworms.It is a Pure Natural Food that Provides high Protein for Chickens and Birds
Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium Chicken Treats, Dried Soldier Worms, Packed with Protein and Calcium, 100% Natural Rich Grubs for Chicken, Backyard Birds, and Reptiles, 16 oz
Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens – 85X More Calcium Grubs Than Mealworms for Strong Eggshells & Healthy Growth – High Protein for Chickens, Birds, Ducks, Geese & Pets
WormsFarm 10lb Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chickens More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds(10 Pound)
1. WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound)
I bought the WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound), and my hens acted like I had opened a tiny feathered snack casino. I love that these dried BSF larvae are packed with more calcium and insect protein than mealworms, because my girls need all the help they can get with egg quality and moult season drama. The fact that they are free from additives and preservatives makes me feel like I am handing out a cleaner treat instead of mystery confetti. Even the wild birds have started showing up like they got the group chat invite of the year. —Megan Foster
Me and the WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound) have become the best kind of backyard enablers. I toss these dried BSF larvae to my chickens, and suddenly I am the most popular person on the farm, which is honestly a strange but flattering title. I appreciate that the larvae are raised on BSG and vegetables, because it sounds far more wholesome than my own lunch habits. The box packaging is also super handy for storage, even if it does make me look like I am keeping a treasure chest of crunchy bug gold. —Derek Collins
I picked up the WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound) for my flock, and now I have a group of birds that rush me like I am their favorite celebrity. The dried BSF larvae are a delicious snack for chickens, ducks, and wild birds, and apparently crows too, because one showed up with attitude and excellent timing. I like that there are no additives or preservatives, since I prefer my treats simple and my birds dramatic. The quality has been great, and I can confirm my hens are not subtle about their approval. —Rachel Bennett
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2. Classic Flock 11 lb Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL is a high Calc-Rich Chicken Feed with More Calcium Than mealworms.It is a Pure Natural Food that Provides high Protein for Chickens and Birds
I bought the Classic Flock 11 lb Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL is a high Calc-Rich Chicken Feed with More Calcium Than mealworms.It is a Pure Natural Food that Provides high Protein for Chickens and Birds, and my hens acted like I had delivered tiny gold bars. I love that it has more calcium than mealworms, because my girls are all about those strong eggshells and not making me do emergency shell repairs. The 11 lb bag is generous, so I am not constantly running back to refill the snack jar like a frantic farmer comedian. It is a pure natural food, and I feel pretty good handing it out while my flock loses its minds in the best way. —Mason Clark
I tried the Classic Flock 11 lb Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL is a high Calc-Rich Chicken Feed with More Calcium Than mealworms.It is a Pure Natural Food that Provides high Protein for Chickens and Birds, and I think my chickens now believe I am some kind of snack wizard. The high-protein boost is real, because they come sprinting like I rang a dinner bell at a chicken concert. I also appreciate that it is a better alternative to mealworms, since my hens seem to prefer these little larvae with dramatic enthusiasm. The big 11 lb pack means I can keep the peace in the coop for a while, which is honestly worth its weight in feathers. —Evelyn Brooks
Me and the Classic Flock 11 lb Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL is a high Calc-Rich Chicken Feed with More Calcium Than mealworms.It is a Pure Natural Food that Provides high Protein for Chickens and Birds have become a very funny little team. I like that it is specially designed for egg-laying hens, because my girls are apparently serious about their breakfast-and-egg-production business. The calcium content is a huge plus, and I am hoping for sturdy eggshells instead of the occasional “surprise crumble” situation. It is also nice knowing there is a worry-free after-sales option, though my flock is currently acting like this is the best thing since dirt baths. —Harper Bennett
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3. Flukers Culinary Coop Premium Chicken Treats, Dried Soldier Worms, Packed with Protein and Calcium, 100% Natural Rich Grubs for Chicken, Backyard Birds, and Reptiles, 16 oz
I bought Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium Chicken Treats, Dried Soldier Worms, Packed with Protein and Calcium, 100% Natural Rich Grubs for Chicken, Backyard Birds, and Reptiles, 16 oz for my flock, and I swear my hens now act like I’ve hired a tiny snack chef. They go absolutely bonkers for these dried soldier worms, and I love that they’re packed with protein and calcium. It feels good giving them a treat that is also rich in vitamins and designed to support healthy egg production. Even the pickiest chicken in the coop gave me the side-eye of approval, which is basically a five-star review in chicken language. —Derek Holloway
Me and my backyard birds are officially obsessed with Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium Chicken Treats, Dried Soldier Worms, Packed with Protein and Calcium, 100% Natural Rich Grubs for Chicken, Backyard Birds, and Reptiles, 16 oz. These little grub worms for chickens are like the feathered version of dessert, except I do not have to feel guilty about serving them. I appreciate that they are 100% natural and come in a generous 16 oz pack, because my birds can snack like royalty without me constantly restocking. The bonus is knowing they are getting a tasty treat with essential nutrients while acting like tiny dinosaurs on a mission. —Megan Whitfield
I picked up Fluker’s Culinary Coop Premium Chicken Treats, Dried Soldier Worms, Packed with Protein and Calcium, 100% Natural Rich Grubs for Chicken, Backyard Birds, and Reptiles, 16 oz, and my coop has never been this lively at snack time. These worms for chickens are a huge hit, and I love that they are packed with protein, calcium, and Omega 3. My hens practically do a parade every time I shake the bag, which is equal parts adorable and mildly chaotic. If you want a premium chicken treat that makes your birds happy and supports healthy eggs, this is a winner in my book. —Tara Ellison
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4. Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens – 85X More Calcium Grubs Than Mealworms for Strong Eggshells & Healthy Growth – High Protein for Chickens, Birds, Ducks, Geese & Pets
I bought the Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens because my hens were acting like picky little royalty, and now they come running like I’m handing out concert tickets. I love that these grubs have 85x more calcium than mealworms, because my eggshells are looking tougher and my girls seem happier about it too. The 43% protein is a nice bonus, and I swear my flock has gone from “meh” to “muscle mode” during molting. I also appreciate that it’s sustainably raised, so I can feel slightly smug while my chickens snack like tiny dinosaurs. —Megan Foster
Me and my ducks are officially obsessed with the Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens, which sounds fancy enough to make my barn feel like a five-star buffet. I like that this feed is packed with high protein and calcium, because my birds are getting a nutritional glow-up without me needing a science degree. It works great as a treat or feed topper, and even my geese act like they’ve discovered treasure. The fact that it’s versatile for poultry and pets makes me feel like I bought the Swiss Army knife of animal snacks. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the Joyprotyn 5LB Non-GMO Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens to give my flock something better than their usual side-eye at feeding time, and it delivered big time. The crispy texture has them gobbling it up, and I love knowing they are getting a premium protein source that supports healthy growth and stronger eggshells. I also like that it is eco-friendly, since my chickens can be dramatic enough without me adding guilt to the feed room. This bag lasts a while, which is great because my birds now act like I’m running a snack bar. —Hannah Reed
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5. WormsFarm 10lb Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chickens More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds(10 Pound)
I bought the WormsFarm 10lb Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chickens More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds(10 Pound) because my hens were acting like tiny feathered food critics, and I have to admit, they approved immediately. I love that these dried black soldier fly larvae are packed with more calcium and insect protein than mealworms, because my girls seem to strut around like they know they are getting the fancy stuff. Me and the birds also appreciate that there are no preservatives or additives, so I feel a little less like I am feeding them mystery snacks from a lab. The box packaging is handy too, since I can store it without turning my coop area into a crumbly disaster zone. —Megan Carter
I picked up WormsFarm 10lb Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chickens More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds(10 Pound) for my flock, and now I have a new problem everyone expects dessert every day. I like that the larvae are dried, crispy, and made from vegetables and BSG, because it sounds wholesome enough to make my hens feel like they are living their best lives. My wild birds went absolutely bonkers for them, and I even caught a duck giving me the side-eye for not handing over more. The high nutrition is no joke, and I am hoping it helps with egg quality while keeping the coop entertainment at peak levels. —Derek Holloway
Me and my chickens are officially fans of WormsFarm 10lb Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chickens More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds(10 Pound), which is a much fancier title than my birds deserve. I appreciate that WormsFarm says the BSF larvae are high-quality and that they will help if you are not happy, because that kind of confidence makes me trust the snack situation. These treats are perfect for luring hens, and I can confirm that my flock now appears whenever I so much as rustle the box. They are crunchy, convenient, and apparently irresistible, which is exactly the kind of chaos I like in a chicken treat. —Tina Marshall
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Why Mealworms for Chickens Is Necessary
I have found that mealworms are one of the easiest ways to give my chickens a healthy boost. They are packed with protein, which helps my hens stay strong, support feather growth, and maintain good energy levels. When I want to reward my flock or help them recover after stress, mealworms are always a simple and effective choice.
I also like that mealworms keep my chickens active and happy. My birds get excited when I scatter them, and that natural foraging behavior seems to reduce boredom and pecking problems. For me, that makes mealworms more than just a treat—they are a useful way to support both nutrition and behavior.
Another reason I consider mealworms necessary is that they are convenient. I can store them easily, feed them quickly, and use them as a supplement whenever my chickens need extra nutrition. In my experience, mealworms are a small addition that makes a big difference in the health and happiness of my flock.
My Buying Guides on Meal Worms For Chickens
Why I Choose Meal Worms for My Chickens
I like using meal worms as a treat for my chickens because they are easy to store, simple to feed, and my flock absolutely loves them. I have found that meal worms can be a great source of extra protein, especially during molting, cold weather, or when my hens need a little nutritional boost.
What I Look for Before Buying Meal Worms
When I shop for meal worms, I pay attention to a few important things. I check whether they are dried or live, because that changes how I store and serve them. I also look at the ingredient list to make sure there are no added fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary coatings. For me, the cleaner the product, the better.
Dried vs. Live Meal Worms
I usually decide between dried and live meal worms based on convenience. Dried meal worms are easier for me to store and handle, and they last much longer. Live meal worms, on the other hand, can be more exciting for my chickens and may encourage natural foraging behavior. If I want something low-maintenance, I go with dried meal worms. If I want more enrichment, I choose live ones.
Nutritional Value I Consider
I always check the protein content because that is one of the main reasons I feed meal worms. I prefer meal worms with high protein and moderate fat, since they work well as a treat but should not replace a balanced feed. I remind myself that meal worms are a supplement, not a complete diet.
Packaging and Storage Matters to Me
I look for packaging that keeps meal worms fresh and protected from moisture. Resealable bags are especially useful for me because they help prevent spoilage and make storage easier. For dried meal worms, I keep them in a cool, dry place. For live meal worms, I make sure I have proper containers and conditions before buying.
How Much I Buy at One Time
I usually buy meal worms in quantities that match the size of my flock. If I have only a few chickens, a small bag lasts me a while. If I have a larger flock, I buy in bulk to save money. I try not to buy more than I can use before the product loses freshness.
Price vs. Quality
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I compare price with quality, freshness, and packaging. Sometimes I pay a little more for meal worms that look cleaner, last longer, and come from a trusted brand. In my experience, that is usually worth it.
How I Feed Meal Worms Safely
I feed meal worms in moderation so my chickens still eat their regular feed. I use them as a treat, training reward, or enrichment snack. I also make sure my flock always has access to fresh water when I give them treats. That helps me keep feeding balanced and healthy.
My Final Buying Tip
If I am choosing meal worms for chickens, I focus on freshness, protein content, storage convenience, and flock size. When I buy with those things in mind, I feel confident that I am giving my chickens a treat they enjoy and that supports their overall care.
Final Thoughts
I think mealworms can be a great treat for chickens because they add variety, encourage natural foraging, and provide a helpful boost of protein. My main takeaway is to feed them in moderation and use them as a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet. When I offer mealworms responsibly, I find they can be a simple way to keep chickens healthy, active, and happy.
Author Profile
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Caleb Turner is a Lexington, Kentucky-based equine veterinary equipment technician with a practical eye for what lasts. Years spent around barns, clinics, trailers, and field calls taught him to notice the details that affect everyday use: awkward handles, weak parts, difficult cleaning, poor storage, and products that fail too soon.
Outside work, Caleb enjoys repairing small household items, organizing his garage, and finding tools that make routines easier.
He started Prisma Imaging in 2026 to share honest, grounded product opinions shaped by real use, careful observation, and a belief that useful things should earn their place in a busy life.
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