Grubbly Farms Grubblies vs Dried Mealworms: Which High-Protein Chicken Treat Is Actually Better for Eggs?
| Nutritional Metric | Grubbly Farms Grubblies | Traditional Dried Mealworms |
|---|---|---|
| Insect Source | Black Soldier Fly Larvae | Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) |
| Calcium Content | 3.0% to 3.5% (50x Higher) | 0.06% (Negligible) |
| Crude Protein | 38% to 42% | 50% to 53% |
| Healthy Fats & Lauric Acid | High (Natural gut support) | Moderate |
| Best Use Case | Laying hens, soft shells, molting flock | Winter calorie boost and training |
| Average Retail Price | $22 / lb (Premium sustainable) | $14 / lb (Economical bulk) |
Contender 1: Grubbly Farms Grubblies
1. Grubbly Farms Grubblies
Editor’s Choice
3.0% to 3.5% (Bioavailable)
40% Whole Protein
USA Harvested Black Soldier Fly
Strong Eggshells & Molt Growth
Grubblies are oven-dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) raised on clean surplus fruits, vegetables, and grains. Unlike mealworms, whose calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is heavily imbalanced, BSFL develop a naturally dense calcium exoskeleton. This calcium is instantly bioavailable to laying hens, helping them quickly restore shell thickness after soft-shell scares and accelerating pin-feather emergence during fall molt.
Sarah M., Verified Buyer (Wisconsin Backyard Flock)
- Naturally high calcium (3.0%) maintains shell hardness without extra dosing.
- Rich in lauric acid, an essential fatty acid supporting natural gut immunity.
- Sustainable production fed exclusively on clean food surplus.
- Whole intact larvae provide a crunch hens eagerly forage for.
- Higher cost per pound than bulk imported mealworms ($18 to $24 per bag).
- Noticeably stronger earthy aroma straight from the bag.
Contender 2: Traditional Dried Mealworms (Amzey / Happy Hen)
2. Traditional Dried Mealworms
Best Value
0.06% (Requires Calcium Boost)
52% High Protein
Imported Yellow Mealworms
Winter Calorie & Hand Training
Traditional dried mealworms remain the most widely available chicken treat on the market. With over 50% crude protein, they provide a fast calorie and amino acid spike for winter warming. However, because they contain almost no calcium, feeding more than a tablespoon per hen each day can dilute total dietary calcium and cause fragile shells.
- Highest crude protein content (50%+) for rapid winter body heat.
- Economical 5-pound and 10-pound bulk boxes available at Tractor Supply and online.
- Irresistible treat for hand-training and coop recall at sunset.
- Near-zero calcium requires strict portion control to protect eggshell density.
- Primarily imported with limited micronutrient diversity.
The Verdict: When to Choose Each
- Choose Grubbly Farms Grubblies: If your hens are actively laying, you notice soft eggshells, or your flock is molting. The bioavailable calcium makes it an active health booster.
- Choose Traditional Mealworms: If you need an economical high-protein treat for winter flock warmth, taming new pullets, or hand-recall training where price per pound is key.