What was the point in taking all of this time to check the labels and do a bit of research on mouse/rat nutrient requirements? Well, first, Purina Mazuri and Harlan products are not always easily obtained, and second, in most circumstances, the poultry food is going to be MUCH cheaper than rodent foods. Rodent blocks in my area cost $1.05/lb, while proper poultry feeds purchased at Tractor Supply (Dumor brand) are about $.33/lb. If I were to take the time to drive to the Purina mill, I could probably get it for about $.20/lb. The poultry feed could cut your feeder bill in half, without sacrificing essential nutrients.
So if I go to tractor supply, and get Dumor poultry feed...my rats will be as healthy as using the "rat Food recipe" that is stickied?