Are you a backyard chicken keeper wondering about the brand behind your flock’s favorite feed? If you’ve ever shopped at Tractor Supply, you’ve probably come across Producer’s Pride chicken feed sitting prominently on the shelves. But have you ever wondered who actually owns and manufactures this popular poultry feed brand? The answer might surprise you!
As someone who’s been raising chickens for years I’ve gone through countless bags of feed, and understanding who makes what has helped me make better choices for my flock. Today, I’m diving deep into the ownership structure of Producer’s Pride chicken feed to help you make informed decisions about what goes into your feathered friends’ diet.
The Definitive Answer: Who Owns Producer’s Pride?
Let’s cut straight to the chase – Producer’s Pride chicken feed is owned by Tractor Supply Company (TSC), This makes Producer’s Pride what’s known in the retail industry as a “private label” or “house brand” that’s exclusively sold at Tractor Supply stores
But here’s where things get interesting…
The Manufacturing Partnership Behind Producer’s Pride
While Tractor Supply owns the Producer’s Pride brand, they don’t actually manufacture the feed themselves According to industry research, Purina Animal Nutrition is the actual manufacturer behind Producer’s Pride chicken feed
This type of arrangement is common in the retail world – Tractor Supply contracts with Purina to produce feed under Tractor Supply’s own Producer’s Pride brand name. It’s a strategic private label agreement that benefits both companies:
- Tractor Supply gets to offer their customers an exclusive brand with perceived value and recognition
- Purina gains a reliable sales channel without directly competing with their own Purina-branded feeds (which are also sold at Tractor Supply)
- Chicken keepers like us get access to quality feed at competitive prices
Understanding the Tractor Supply-Purina Relationship
Purina Animal Nutrition is a division of the Purina company that focuses specifically on feeds for farm animals including poultry, cattle, and horses. Founded in 1926, they’ve built extensive research and manufacturing capabilities over the decades.
When you purchase Producer’s Pride feed, you’re actually getting a product made in Purina’s network of feed mills across the United States. If you examine the fine print on your feed bag, you might even spot a Purina facility listed as the manufacturing address or code.
The ingredient lists and nutritional analyses of Producer’s Pride products often mirror Purina’s own feed formulations, though they may not be identical. Both brands feature advanced additives like prebiotics, probiotics, vitamins, and essential amino acids that reflect Purina’s research and feed technology.
Producer’s Pride Product Range
Tractor Supply offers a comprehensive range of Producer’s Pride chicken feeds to meet the needs of your flock at different life stages:
- Starter Feed: Formulated for chicks 0-8 weeks old, supporting rapid growth (may contain medication)
- Grower Feed: For pullets 8 weeks to point of lay, supporting development and bone strength
- Layer Feed: Higher in calcium and nutrients to support egg production in laying hens
- Scratch Grains: Mixed grains for supplemental feeding that encourages natural foraging behavior
- Meat Bird/Finisher Feed: Promotes fast weight gain for broiler chickens
- Turkey and Game Bird Feeds: Specialized formulations for various poultry species
- Organic Feed Options: Non-GMO verified or certified organic formulations for those seeking alternative options
Quality Control and Production Standards
As a private label brand, Producer’s Pride chicken feed is produced according to strict quality control standards established by Tractor Supply Company. While they outsource the actual manufacturing to Purina, Tractor Supply maintains oversight to ensure the feed meets specified nutritional requirements and safety standards.
The feed is formulated based on the latest poultry nutrition research, with different varieties customized to the specific requirements of various chicken breeds and life stages.
How Producer’s Pride Compares to Other Brands
Is Producer’s Pride comparable to name brands like Purina’s own lines? While the formulations aren’t exactly identical, the underlying nutritional science and quality control from Purina gives Producer’s Pride an advantage over generic store brands.
One key difference is that Producer’s Pride is positioned as a more budget-friendly option compared to Purina’s premium poultry feeds. This allows Tractor Supply to offer customers quality nutrition at competitive prices. However, you can pay a bit more for organic certified options under the Producer’s Pride brand if that aligns with your feeding preferences.
When in doubt, I always recommend comparing the nutritional analysis and ingredients between Producer’s Pride and other brands intended for the same chicken type and life stage. This gives you confidence you’re meeting your flock’s needs.
Where to Buy Producer’s Pride Chicken Feed
One unique aspect of the Producer’s Pride brand is that it’s exclusively sold at Tractor Supply locations and their online store. You won’t find it at other farm stores, feed mills, or retailers like Walmart.
This exclusivity is a characteristic of private label brands and gives Tractor Supply a distinctive product line to market to poultry keepers shopping at their stores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Producer’s Pride
Is Producer’s Pride chicken feed made in the USA?
Yes, Producer’s Pride is manufactured in Purina’s network of feed mills located throughout the United States.
What are the main ingredients in Producer’s Pride chicken feed?
The main ingredients typically include corn, soybean meal, wheat middlings, and various vitamins and minerals. The specific formulation varies depending on the type of feed.
Is Producer’s Pride feed nutritionally balanced?
Yes, Purina’s involvement ensures the feed is nutritionally balanced and formulated based on poultry nutrition research. Different varieties are customized to the requirements of specific chicken breeds and life stages.
Is Producer’s Pride feed organic?
Some formulations are Non-GMO Project Verified or certified organic, but not all. Check the labels to confirm which status applies to your specific product.
Does Producer’s Pride contain medications or animal products?
Some starter feeds contain coccidiostat medications to prevent common diseases in young chicks. Vegetarian and soy-free formulations are available. Always check labels for specific information.
How long does Producer’s Pride feed stay fresh?
Producer’s Pride feed typically stays fresh for about 6 months from the manufacturing date if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Discard old feed that shows signs of mold or pest infestation.
What is the protein content of Producer’s Pride chicken feed?
Protein content varies by formulation: starter feeds typically have higher protein content (around 20-22%), while grower feeds and layer feeds typically contain around 16-18% and 16% protein, respectively.
Tips for Transitioning to Producer’s Pride Feed
If you’re considering switching your flock to Producer’s Pride, here are some helpful tips:
- Transition gradually over 5-7 days by slowly mixing increasing amounts of the new feed with decreasing amounts of the old feed
- Monitor your chickens closely for changes in appetite, egg production, and droppings
- Store feed properly in sealed containers to maintain freshness and prevent pest infestation
- Check the manufacturing date to ensure you’re purchasing fresh feed
- Supplement with grit if your chickens don’t have access to natural foraging areas
The Bottom Line on Producer’s Pride Ownership
To wrap things up, Producer’s Pride chicken feed is owned by Tractor Supply Company but manufactured by Purina Animal Nutrition. This partnership allows Tractor Supply to offer quality poultry nutrition at competitive prices under their own private label.
Next time you pick up a bag of Producer’s Pride feed, you’ll know there’s trusted Purina quality behind the brand. With an affordable price point and convenient purchasing at Tractor Supply stores, Producer’s Pride can be a smart choice for many backyard chicken keepers.
Have you tried Producer’s Pride feed for your flock? What has been your experience with it? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Remember, happy chickens make for better eggs and more enjoyable backyard farming experiences!
Disclaimer: Feed formulations and manufacturing arrangements may change over time. This information is accurate as of our latest research, but we always recommend checking current product packaging for the most up-to-date information.
Breaking Down the Nutrition
Let’s get scientific for a moment (don’t worry, I promise not to use too many big words). Dumor Chicken Feed is a nutritional powerhouse. We’re talking:
- Protein: For muscle development and egg production
- Carbohydrates: For energy (chickens need fuel for all that scratching and pecking)
- Fats: For nutrient absorption and feather health
- Vitamins and Minerals: For overall health and immune function
It’s like a multivitamin, protein shake, and energy bar all rolled into one delicious (well, for chickens) package.
DuMOR 16% Layer Crumble Poultry Feed, 50 lb.
- 100% complete recipe crafted for all egg laying hens
- 16% protein ensures proper muscle growth and development
- Calcium fortified to help support healthy egg production and strong shells
- Prebiotics and probiotics boost immune health and digestion
- Organic minerals in the poultry feed provide essential nutrients
