How do you read feed tags on Nutrena Brand feed?

[mrsjohnson0807]

Today I picked up my order of Nutrena Nature Wise Layer Pellets from my local feed store and when I opened it it was more dust then Pellets and full of bugs. I am assuming they give me a very old bag of feed, but I am unsure how to read the tag.

 

[teach1rusl]

Nutrena® feed bags are marked on the tag with a code that indicates what day that bag of feed was produced on.
On the tag, look for "Lot:" followed by a series of letters and numbers. The letters indicate which plant made that product, and then there are 4 digits strung together - the first digit indicates the year, so anything made in 2011 will have a 1, anything after the 1st of 2012 will have a 2. Then the next three numbers are called the "Julian Date Code" - these number the days of the year. So, Jan 1 is 001, Jan 2 is 002, and so on until December 31 is 365.

If I'm reading this correctly, your feed was bagged Jan. 5, 2012. Take a look at this, also from the site:
When stored properly in dry, moderate temperature conditions, feed can be stored for up to 6 months. Always inspect feed prior to use for bugs, mold, or other evidence of damage.

So if this was a recent purchase, your feed is over 6 mos. old. Definitely return to store...

 

[mrsjohnson0807]

Thanks for your help. We are returning the bag today.