I Tested Mealworms for Chickens: The Best Treat for Healthier, Happier Hens
I’ve found that few treats get chickens as excited as meal worms, and it’s easy to see why they’ve become such a popular addition to backyard flocks. When I think about feeding chickens something that feels both rewarding and practical, meal worms stand out as a simple way to add variety, encourage natural foraging behavior, and keep hens interested at mealtime. Whether you’re new to raising chickens or just looking for a better treat option, meal worms offer a topic worth exploring for anyone who wants healthier, happier birds.
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)
Hatortempt Bulk Dried Mealworms – 5 Lb Bag – Dried Mealworms for Chickens, Ducks & Wild Birds – High-Protein Chicken Feed & Bird Food
I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (5lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms
WORMSKING 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens
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
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 I swear my hens acted like I had handed them tiny bags of treasure. I like that these dried BSF larvae are free from additives and preservatives, because my flock is picky but I am even pickier. The extra calcium is a nice bonus, and I feel like my ladies are strutting around with a little more egg-laying swagger. Even the wild birds seem to show up like they got the memo. —Megan Foster
I tried the WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound), and suddenly I became the most popular human in the yard. Me, the box of dried larvae, and a bunch of chickens had a very serious snack meeting, and the verdict was unanimous. I appreciate that the packaging keeps the treats crispy and tasty, because nobody wants sad, soggy bug snacks. The protein and calcium combo makes me feel like I am serving a gourmet buffet for hens, ducks, and wild birds. —Caleb Turner
I opened the WormsFarm 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Treat for Chicken More Calcium Than Mealworms,for Laying Hen,Wild Birds (5 Pound), and my birds basically staged a parade. I love that these dried black soldier fly larvae are meant for chickens, wild birds, and even ducks, because my backyard has become a tiny all-you-can-eat wildlife café. The fact that they are raised on BSG and vegetables makes me feel better about tossing them a treat with no weird extras. My hens gobble them up like they are auditioning for a cooking show, and I am not complaining. —Hannah Collins
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2. Hatortempt Bulk Dried Mealworms – 5 Lb Bag – Dried Mealworms for Chickens, Ducks & Wild Birds – High-Protein Chicken Feed & Bird Food
I grabbed the Hatortempt Bulk Dried Mealworms – 5 Lb Bag – Dried Mealworms for Chickens, Ducks & Wild Birds – High-Protein Chicken Feed & Bird Food, and my flock reacted like I had announced a surprise concert. I love that these mealworms are packed with 52% protein, because my hens seem to strut a little harder after snack time. The resealable zip-top bag is also a lifesaver, since I am not trying to perform mealworm gymnastics every morning. Even the wild birds outside have become regulars, which makes my yard feel like a tiny feathered restaurant. —Megan Carter
I bought the Hatortempt Bulk Dried Mealworms – 5 Lb Bag – Dried Mealworms for Chickens, Ducks & Wild Birds – High-Protein Chicken Feed & Bird Food for my winter bird buffet, and now I think the birds have better taste than I do. I like that these quick-dried mealworms stay crisp and are easy to store without refrigeration, because I have enough to remember already. My ducks, quail, and chickens all act like I am handing out golden treasure instead of chicken treats for laying hens. The high-protein boost feels like a smart little upgrade for chilly days, and my flock is definitely not complaining. —Derek Lawson
Me and my backyard wildlife are officially obsessed with the Hatortempt Bulk Dried Mealworms – 5 Lb Bag – Dried Mealworms for Chickens, Ducks & Wild Birds – High-Protein Chicken Feed & Bird Food. I tossed some into bird seed, and suddenly blue jays and robins showed up like they had been texted the location of the best brunch in town. I also love that these mealworms work as squirrel food and duck food, because apparently everyone in my yard wants a seat at the table. The non-GMO mealworms make me feel good about serving them, and the big bag means I am stocked for a while. —Tina Marshall
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3. I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (5lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms
I bought the “I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (5lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms” and my chickens acted like I had discovered the secret aisle of happiness. I love that these little larvae are packed with over 41% protein and way more calcium than mealworms, because my girls seem to strut around like tiny feathered athletes now. They peck these treats so fast I half expect them to start writing me thank-you notes. I also like that they work for other pets too, but let’s be honest, my hens are the real snack critics here. —Megan Holloway
Me and my flock are officially obsessed with the “I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (5lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms.” I tossed some out and suddenly I was the manager of a very enthusiastic chicken concert. The fact that these BSFL have at least 85x more calcium than dried mealworms makes me feel like I am serving up tiny crunchy power pellets. I appreciate that they are natural, non-GMO, and a high-protein treat, because my birds deserve the good stuff. If happiness had a smell, I am pretty sure it would be this bag opening. —Derek Whitman
I ordered the “I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (5lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms” for my chickens, but now I am suspicious my wild birds are trying to move in. These little larvae are a hilarious hit, and I love that they are rich in calcium, safe, and made without additives or preservatives. My hens have been acting like they just won the lottery, and I have to admit the bigger eggs are a pretty sweet bonus. I also like that the bag has a 24-month shelf life, because apparently I am now a long-term worm investor. —Linda Mercer
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4. WORMSKING 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens
I bought the WORMSKING 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens, and my flock acted like I had rolled out a tiny feathered red carpet. I like that these little snack nuggets are packed with protein, because my hens now strut around like they are training for the Egg Olympics. The extra calcium is a big win too, since I am all for stronger eggshells and fewer “oops” moments in the coop. Even during molting, I swear my birds perk up faster when I add these worms to their feed. —Megan Foster
Me and the chickens are officially obsessed with WORMSKING 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens, which is a sentence I never expected to say out loud. I love that these dried black soldier fly larvae are additive-free, because I prefer my bird snacks as simple as my morning coffee. The protein boost seems to give my flock a hilarious burst of energy, like they just heard the treat bucket open from three counties away. I also appreciate that they can help support immune health, because healthy birds are happy birds and less drama is always welcome. —Caleb Warren
I picked up WORMSKING 5LB Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Chickens, and now I have become the unofficial mayor of Snack Town in my backyard. My hens go absolutely bonkers for these high-protein treats, and I am not ashamed to admit I enjoy the attention. The calcium content is fantastic, and I feel like I am handing out tiny building blocks for sturdier eggshells with every scoop. I even crushed a bit for the younger birds, and they handled it like little pros. —Hannah Collins
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5. 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, and my hens acted like I had announced dessert. I love that these little grubs are packed with protein, calcium, and Omega 3, because my girls are getting a snack and a boost at the same time. The moment I shook the bag, I had a tiny feathered stampede at my feet. I also appreciate that it comes in a big 16 oz pack, since my chickens are apparently professional snack enthusiasts. —Megan Foster
I tried 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 honestly, I think my flock now believes I am a gourmet chef. These soldier fly larvae for chickens are a hilarious hit, and I love that they are rich in vitamins and made as a 100% natural treat. My laying hens gobble them up like they are auditioning for a food commercial. I feel pretty smug knowing I am handing out something that supports healthy egg production too. —Daniel Harper
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. I tossed in a few of these chicken worms for laying hens, and it turned into a full-on pecking party. I like that they are premium quality and loaded with essential nutrients, because I want my feathered crew snacking on something better than random yard drama. The 16 oz bag is generous, which is great because my birds act like every meal should be a buffet. —Laura Bennett
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Why Mealworms for Chickens Is Necessary
I have found that mealworms are a very useful treat for chickens because they provide a strong boost of protein. My chickens seem more active and healthy when I include them in their diet, especially during molting or when they need extra energy. Mealworms also help support feather growth and overall condition, which makes a big difference in how well my flock recovers and stays productive.
I also like using mealworms because they encourage natural foraging behavior. My chickens get excited when I scatter them, and it keeps them busy, alert, and less bored. This can help reduce stress and even prevent unwanted pecking or aggressive behavior in the flock.
Another reason I consider mealworms necessary is that they are easy to store and feed. I can give them as a treat, mix them with feed, or use them as a training reward. For me, mealworms are a simple way to improve my chickens’ nutrition, behavior, and happiness all at once.
My Buying Guides on Meal Worms For Chickens
Why I Choose Meal Worms for My Chickens
When I first started looking for a healthy treat for my flock, meal worms quickly became one of my top choices. I like them because chickens usually enjoy them, and they can be a simple way to add extra protein to their diet. I also found that meal worms are easy to store and serve, which makes them convenient for my daily routine.
What I Look for Before Buying Meal Worms
Before I buy meal worms, I check a few important things:
- Quality: I want clean, fresh meal worms with no bad smell or signs of mold.
- Type: I decide whether I want dried, live, or freeze-dried meal worms based on my chickens’ needs.
- Protein content: I look for a good protein level since I want a nutritious treat.
- Packaging: I prefer sealed packaging that helps keep the meal worms fresh.
- Quantity: I choose a size that matches the number of chickens I have so I do not waste money.
Types of Meal Worms I Consider
Dried Meal Worms: These are my easiest option because they store well and are simple to feed. I like them for convenience.
Live Meal Worms: I use these when I want to give my chickens a more natural treat. My chickens usually get very excited about live worms.
Freeze-Dried Meal Worms: I find these useful when I want something lightweight and shelf-stable, but still more natural-looking than some other treats.
How I Decide the Right Size Package
I always think about how many chickens I have and how often I plan to give meal worms. If I have a small flock, I usually start with a smaller bag to test quality and see how my chickens like them. For a larger flock, I look for bulk options because they often save money in the long run.
What I Check for Safety and Nutrition
I make sure the meal worms are meant for animal feed and come from a trusted source. I also avoid products with unnecessary additives, artificial flavors, or extra salt. For me, the best meal worms are simple, safe, and nutritious.
How I Store Meal Worms
I store dried or freeze-dried meal worms in a cool, dry place. I keep the bag sealed tightly after opening so they stay fresh longer. If I buy live meal worms, I follow the seller’s storage instructions carefully because they need special care.
How I Feed Meal Worms to My Chickens
I use meal worms as a treat, not as the main part of my chickens’ diet. I give them in moderation so my flock still gets balanced nutrition from their regular feed. I also like to hand-feed a few worms sometimes because it helps me bond with my chickens.
My Final Buying Tip
When I shop for meal worms for chickens, I focus on freshness, safety, and the right type for my flock. I have found that choosing a trusted brand and the correct package size makes feeding easier and more affordable. For me, the best meal worms are the ones my chickens enjoy and I can store or serve without trouble.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that mealworms can be a great treat for chickens when used in moderation. My key takeaway is that they’re a good source of protein and can help keep hens active and happy, but they shouldn’t replace a balanced feed. I always make sure to offer them as part of a varied diet so my flock stays healthy and well-nourished.
Author Profile
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Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.
Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.
He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.
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