feed

[irish44395]

I buy a 50# of feed every two months was thinking next time I buy two bags will I have a problem keeping a unopened bag for over the two months before I use it. Thanks

 

[Emelyn]

I buy a 50# of feed every two months was thinking next time I buy two bags will I have a problem keeping a unopened bag for over the two months before I use it. Thanks

No, you shouldn't if it's in a cool place

 

[U_Stormcrow]

First, check the label for the date code - you don't know how long its been sitting on the floor before you bring it home.

Optimally, you want to complete using the bag before it reaches 3 months from mfg date (an arbitrary number, I admit). Whole grains stay "fresh" longer than pellets, which stay fresh longer than crumble. Its a matter of surface area and exposure to air.

You are in Gulfport, a bit south of where I used to live when I went to school in Tampa. Its hot, and humid - the worst possible conditions for storing feed, particurly in the summer and early fall. Molds and mildews can readily take over a feed bag in those conditions.

So, not "no" - though I don't understand the value of buying 100# at a time, and there are some potential downsides, like having four month old feed being offered to your birds that was who knows how old before you bought it - but if you do go that route, recommend you keep the unopened bag at the bottom of the kitchen pantry, where your home's AC can ensure it stays relatively dry. I know many place it by the dog food in the utility room with the washer/dryer - sadly that room is even more humid than the kitchen. Don't recommend.

 

[irish44395]

Thanks its a 30 min or so drive to T.S. Its not far but its the only thing I buy there . Its been working well every two months.,didn't figure in the fact of freshness in this idea so I believe I'll keep doing they way I have been Thanks

 

[rosemarythyme]

Thanks its a 30 min or so drive to T.S. Its not far but its the only thing I buy there . Its been working well every two months.,didn't figure in the fact of freshness in this idea so I believe I'll keep doing they way I have been Thanks

Is there anything else along the way to the feed store, just so you don't feel the drive is a chore? My feed store is a bit of a drive out into nowhere so we use it as an excuse to get brunch along the way (hubby loves the restaurant we stop at, so he's happy to make the drive).