When it comes to supplementing a backyard chicken flock’s diet, dried black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have become a popular alternative to traditional mealworms. COOHGRUBS offers a 2-pound box of these grubs, marketed as a 100% natural, non-GMO treat with a notable calcium content—85 times more than dried mealworms, according to the label. After using this product over several weeks with a small flock of mixed-breed hens, here’s a practical look at what it does and doesn’t deliver.
The primary use case is straightforward: you toss a handful of these larvae into the coop or run as a high-protein snack. They’re about the size of small raisins, with a dry, crunchy texture that chickens seem to enjoy. In my experience, the birds gobbled them up quickly, often scratching around for stray pieces. The protein level—typically around 35% for BSFL—is comparable to mealworms, but the calcium difference is the standout feature. For laying hens, calcium is critical for eggshell strength, so this could be a useful supplement, especially if your flock doesn’t get enough from other sources like oyster shells.
One practical strength is the cleanliness. Unlike live mealworms, these dried grubs don’t move or require refrigeration, and they don’t create the same mess. The 2-pound box is resealable, which helps maintain freshness over a few weeks of daily feeding. I found a small handful per hen (about a tablespoon) was plenty; overfeeding could lead to an unbalanced diet, as treats should only make up a small portion of their intake. The grubs also work well for wild birds, though I primarily tested them with chickens.
However, there are limitations. The most obvious is the price point. BSFL tend to cost more per pound than standard dried mealworms, and while the calcium content is higher, not every flock needs that extra boost. If your hens already get adequate calcium from layer feed or supplements, the added benefit here is marginal. Another trade-off is the size—some smaller birds or chicks might find them a bit large to swallow whole, though you can crush them easily. I also noticed a faint, earthy smell when opening the box, which isn’t unpleasant but is more noticeable than the neutral scent of many mealworm products.
Comparing this to dried mealworms, the key difference is nutritional profile. Mealworms are slightly higher in fat (around 20-25% vs. BSFL’s 15-20%), making them better for winter energy boosts, but BSFL win on calcium. For someone who wants a single treat that covers both protein and calcium needs, this is a reasonable pick. That said, if you’re primarily after a protein treat and already provide separate calcium, mealworms might be more cost-effective. COOHGRUBS also competes with other BSFL brands like Symton or GrubTerra, but the quality here seems consistent—no mold or excessive dust in the box I received.
Who is this for? It’s a good fit for backyard chicken keepers who want a clean, no-fuss treat with a calcium bonus, especially if they have laying hens or see thin eggshells. It’s also useful for people who prefer non-GMO or natural products. Who might skip it? If your flock is primarily meat birds, the extra calcium isn’t as relevant, and the cost might not justify it. Similarly, if you’re on a tight budget or your birds are picky about treats, mealworms could be a safer bet.
In summary, COOHGRUBS black soldier fly larvae are a functional, nutritious treat that does what it claims. They’re not a miracle supplement, but they offer a specific advantage in calcium that sets them apart from common alternatives. Just be mindful of your flock’s actual dietary needs and your own budget before stocking up.