How to rehydrate dried mealworms

Chickens love dried mealworms. Mealworms offer an exceptional protein boost for laying hens. They are also a family favourite. Children can scatter or hand feed them to the chickens.

Rehydrating dried mealworms in apple cider vinegar solution or plain water is a simple way to make this protein-packed treat easier for chickens and pets to digest.

Dine-A-Chook’s dried mealworms are already a favourite among chicken keepers and pet owners for their nutritional benefits, and rehydrating them adds an extra level of moisture that’s especially helpful in hot climates. By soaking mealworms, you can help prevent dehydration in chickens and make the treat more appealing to pets. Plus, the added moisture is easier on their digestive systems.

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Why Rehydrate Mealworms?

Dried mealworms are an excellent source of protein for chickens and pets, but rehydrating them offers several benefits:

• Easier digestion: Soaking mealworms makes them softer and easier for chickens and pets to digest, particularly for younger birds and animals with sensitive digestion.
• Hydration boost: In warmer climates, rehydrating dried mealworms adds essential moisture, helping chickens stay hydrated as they enjoy their favourite treat.
• Enhanced palatability: Pets may find rehydrated mealworms more appealing, especially if they prefer softer textures.

For more snack ideas for your hens, check out our guide to the best chicken treats.

How to Rehydrate Dried Mealworms with Apple Cider Vinegar

Rehydrating mealworms with a diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) solution adds extra health benefits for your flock. ACV helps balance gut pH levels, supports digestion, and may even aid in calcium absorption for stronger eggshells. Here's how you can rehydrate dried mealworms using ACV:

Instructions:

1. In a plastic container, mix 2.5 ml of Apple Cider Vinegar with Garlic into 500 ml of fresh water.
2. Add a handful of dried mealworms and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes, or until softened.
3. Drain the mixture and scatter the rehydrated mealworms for your chickens to enjoy.

Important Tip: Always ensure the ACV solution is well diluted to avoid irritation in the chicken's throat. The acidity in ACV can also help reduce harmful bacteria in the digestive system, making it a natural addition to your coop care routine.

How to Rehydrate Dried Mealworms Using Water

For a simpler approach, you can rehydrate mealworms using just water. This method is ideal for pets or for chicken keepers who prefer a plain soaking method.

Instructions:

• Take a plastic container, add 500ml of fresh water.
• Add the mealworms and allow to soak until soft.
• Drain to remove water and scatter for the hens to enjoy.

The biggest benefit of using Dried Mealworms is that they can be easily rehydrated. As such, you do not have a high mortality rate as you do when using live worms. Also, dried mealworms stay fresh keeping their nutrients for up to twelve months. Buy Australia's top selling Dine-A-Chook Mealworms

If you have any photo's to share with us of your children feeding the chickens mealworms, send us an email. We'd love to share them on our Dine-A-Chook Instagram page.