How long will an unopened bag of feed stay "fresh"?

[Bookworm chick]

I just have a small flock of bantams so 50 lbs of feed will last awhile and they're on Flock Raiser. TSC just started selling Purina feeds and are having a special on them, $2-3 off their regular price. I'd gotten my Flock Raiser from the local feed/farm/garden store a few weeks ago. TSC's regular price is $1.00 cheaper than the feed store's price. They seem to be doing well on it and I'd planned on keeping them on it.

The TSC price is a good deal, but I just didn't know if there was some sort of expiration date for bagged feed. I've already thrown away the bag the feed came in since I keep it in a plastic bin inside the house.

 

[ranchhand]

There are a lot of variables, mostly I would be concerned with humidity. If it starts clumping or even the slightest hint of a sour smell arises, throw it all out.

In your situation it doesn't really make sense to stock up much, since you can't use it very fast. I'd wait until the current supply gets low, then switch.
$2-3 in savings doesn't mean much if you have to make a special trip to the store and end up tossing it. Not to mention the extra money you'll spend in TSC on something you didn't mean to get......

 

[vstoltzfus]

I buy feed once a month, so I know it lasts at least that long!

 

[Mahonri]

I have unopened bags that I bought 6 months ago.... mistake... they are moldy inside and it looks like I'm going to have to use them for fertilizer.

 

[Bookworm chick]

Quote:
Ok, that convinced me. I'll wait until I've used up what I have. Thanks.

 

[Prairie Mary]

Thanks for asking Bookworm - I've been wondering that too. And thank the rest of you for answering. When layer is on sale I buy two bags and they last about 2 months. They are stored in plastic or metal garbage cans in the barn and I haven't had any problems. However, I had a hunch I might be pushing the limits. This confirms it. Anyone have comments specific to layer? Is 2 months too long? . . . depends on the season? * shrug *

Thanks again - appreciate you guys!