Moldy/spoiled feed?

[DuneDucks]

Hello there!

I've recently started a flock (of ducklings) and after doing a bit of research, and going through frustratingly limited purchase options, settled on some feed from Chewy. Unfortunately a day or two after opening the bag I discovered the odd pellet covered in mold. I combed through the feed pretty extensively, and couldn't find any major clumps of moldy pellets, but I assume the mold would still be present throughout.

I've attached an image. You can clearly see an affected pellet(s) and what I assume is a small clump of powder that has a touch of mold as well.

Basically I guess I'm just asking for confirmation that the whole bag should be tossed, right? Chewy immediately sent me a replacement upon contacting them, so that's not an issue, but it's still going to pain me to toss out a 50 lb bag of feed. Obviously the health of my ducklings is the top priority though. Speaking of, none have exhibited any illnesses, but since they had a few meals of this feed should I give them any probiotic or electrolyte/vitamin mix for good measure?

Appreciate any/all help!

 

[Brooks_]

I would toss it.

 

[Battlepants]

As a middle ground, compost it! After it breaks down, that will be a good thing to add to a garden.

But yea, the thing about mold is that you only see the major clumps. These things have tiny tendrils EVERYWHERE. Just like if you have a loaf of bread that has a moldy slice, throw out the whole thing since effectively there is mold on every slice.

 

[K0k0shka]

Throw it out. Composting it is a good idea, but do it in a closed container so you won't attract rodents. Or you can go deep into the woods somewhere and dump it, and make a whole lot of wild animals very happy. Mold exists in nature so they should be able to make the judgement on whether to eat it or not. Domesticated animals like chickens have lost a lot of their good common sense necessary for survival, and will eat all kinds of things that would make a wild animal go WTF so you can't rely on them not to eat something that's bad for them.

 

[DuneDucks]

Thanks for the input everyone! I have a spare container I've been meaning to start a new compost pile in, so I'll probably be going that route.

Or you can go deep into the woods somewhere and dump it, and make a whole lot of wild animals very happy. Mold exists in nature so they should be able to make the judgement on whether to eat it or not.

That's good to know. I live on 80 acres in a fairly rural spot in Wyoming, so I was wondering if it'd be safe for the wild birds and everything if I dumped it far out on the back 40. I would definitely prefer that to just trashing it. Thanks!