Poultry feed is the foundation of bird health, productivity, and rapid growth. However, even the best-balanced feed can lose nutritional value if stored improperly. Moisture, temperature fluctuations, pests, and poor storage conditions can spoil feed, leading to oxidation, mold growth, and even dangerous toxins.

How can you avoid these problems? In this article, we will cover all the essential aspects of proper feed storage: the factors that affect feed quality, how to organize storage space correctly, and how to recognize spoiled feed in time to prevent losses.

High humidity is one of the main enemies of feed. If the feed is stored in a damp environment or open bags, it can absorb moisture from the air. This creates ideal conditions for mold growth and mycotoxin development, which are hazardous to poultry health.

How to prevent this problem?

• Install a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in the storage area.
• Use dehumidifiers or natural absorbers (such as silica gel in feed containers).
• If the storage area is damp, keep feed containers on wooden pallets or shelves off the ground.

Feed should be stored at a stable temperature. Excessive heat can cause fat oxidation, leading to a loss of nutritional value. Very low temperatures may not spoil the feed directly, but high humidity due to temperature fluctuations can cause condensation, increasing the risk of mold growth.

How to control temperature?

• The optimal storage temperature is 10-20°C (50-68°F).
• Avoid storing feed near heat sources or in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
• Use thermometers to monitor the temperature inside the storage area.

Rodents and insects are a common problem on farms. Rats and mice consume feed and contaminate it with urine and feces, potentially spreading infections. Insects, especially weevils and food mites can also damage feed, breaking its structure and reducing its nutritional value.

How to prevent pest infestations?

• Store feed in metal or plastic airtight containers that rodents cannot chew through.
• Regularly check the storage area for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings or gnaw marks.
• Set up ultrasonic repellents or traps to deter mice and rats.
• To combat insects, consider using bay leaves or natural repellents, which can help keep pests away.

Direct sunlight can cause fat oxidation and vitamin degradation in feed. This is especially true for pelleted and extruded feeds containing added fats and vitamins sensitive to light exposure.

How do we protect feed from light?

• Store feed in dark storage areas or opaque containers.
• If using feed bags, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight.
• Use covers or storage cabinets if the feed is stored in open areas.

Even under ideal storage conditions, the feed has a limited shelf life. Natural feeds degrade faster than industrially produced compound feeds. Old feed may lose vitamins, and fats may become rancid, making it unsuitable for poultry consumption.

How to determine feed shelf life?

• Always check the manufacturing date on the packaging.
• Do not store feed for more than 3-6 months, depending on the type of feed.
• If using grain mixtures, refresh supplies monthly to maintain quality.

How to identify spoiled feed?

• To prevent poultry poisoning, it is essential to recognize signs of spoiled feed.
• Presence of mold or white patches – indicates fungal growth. Such feed should never be used.
• Unpleasant, sour, or musty odor – may indicate fat oxidation or bacterial activity.
• Moist clumps or caked particles – a sign of high moisture, which can lead to toxin formation.
• Presence of insects or larvae – means the feed is infested and may be unsuitable for use.
• Color changes – feed may darken or lose its natural color due to spoilage or oxidation.

1. Use airtight containers
Store feed in sealed plastic or metal bins to prevent moisture absorption, oxidation, and pest infestation. If using bags, ensure they are tightly sealed or placed in closed storage units.

2. Keep feed in a dry place
Choose a dry and well-ventilated storage area. The ideal humidity level should be no higher than 12-14%. If needed, use dehumidifiers or ensure good airflow to prevent condensation.

3. Control temperature
Store feed at a stable temperature (10-20°C / 50-68°F) to prevent oxidation and nutrient degradation. Avoid storing feed in overheated areas or cold, damp environments.

4. Protect against pests

• Store feed off the ground on pallets or shelves to prevent rodent access.
• Use natural repellents or traps to control mice and insects.
• Regularly inspect feed for signs of contamination or infestation.

5. Follow the "First In, First Out" rule
When restocking feed, place new bags behind the older ones to ensure that older stock is used first. This practice helps prevent feed from sitting too long and degrading.

6. Avoid mixing old and new feed
If you have leftover feed from a previous batch, do not mix it with fresh feed. The old feed may already be deteriorating, which could reduce the overall quality of the new batch.

Proper feed storage is just as crucial as choosing high-quality feed. Even the best feed will lose its nutritional value if stored in a damp environment, exposed to temperature fluctuations, or left unprotected from pests.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure high-quality nutrition, improved poultry productivity, and optimal bird health!