The Houston summer brings intense heat and humidity, which can be tough on more than just people and animals. It can also wreak havoc on your animal feed. High temperatures and moisture create the perfect environment for mold growth, insect infestations, and nutrient degradation. Improperly stored feed not only wastes money but can also pose serious health risks to your livestock and poultry.
Protecting your feed from spoilage is a critical part of summer farm management. Learning a few key summer feed storage tips ensures your animals receive safe, nutritious meals all season long. This guide provides practical steps to keep your feed fresh and safe from the summer elements.
1. Keep It Cool and Dry
Heat and moisture are the biggest enemies of stored feed. They accelerate spoilage and encourage mold, which can produce harmful toxins.
- Find a Shady, Ventilated Spot: Store your feed in the coolest, driest area possible. A dedicated feed room or a well-ventilated barn is ideal. Avoid sheds or metal buildings that trap heat and become ovens in the summer sun. Good airflow is essential to prevent moisture buildup.
- Elevate Your Feed: Never store feed bags directly on a concrete or dirt floor. These surfaces can transfer moisture into the bags, leading to mold from the bottom up. Use wooden pallets or shelves to keep the bags elevated, allowing air to circulate underneath.
2. Use Pest-Proof Containers
Insects and rodents are drawn to the easy meal your feed provides. Once they get in, they contaminate the feed with droppings and can quickly multiply.
- Seal It Tight: The best way to prevent pests is to store your feed in sealed, pest-proof containers. Galvanized metal trash cans with tight-fitting lids are a classic, effective choice because rodents cannot chew through them. Food-grade plastic barrels or bins with secure lids also work well.
- First In, First Out: Practice a “first in, first out” system. When you buy new feed, place it behind your existing stock. This ensures you are always using the oldest feed first and prevents bags from sitting around for too long.
3. Buy Only What You Need
While buying in bulk can sometimes save money, it can lead to waste during the summer if you cannot store it properly.
- Purchase Accordingly: Consider buying feed in smaller quantities more frequently during the hot months. Aim to purchase no more than a 30-day supply at a time. This reduces the risk of spoilage and ensures your animals are always eating fresh, high-quality feed.
- Check the Date: Before you buy, always check the manufacturing date on the feed tag. Fresher feed will last longer in storage.
4. Inspect Feed Before Every Use
Make it a habit to inspect the feed every time you scoop it out. This simple step is your final line of defense against feeding spoiled grain.
- Use Your Senses: Look for any signs of mold, which may appear as white, green, or black fuzzy spots. Smell the feed; a sour, musty, or moldy odor is a clear sign that it has gone bad. Feel for any clumps or damp spots. If the feed seems off in any way, do not risk it. Discard it safely.
Your Partner in Feed and Supplies
Proper feed storage is a simple but vital practice that protects your investment and the well-being of your animals. By keeping your feed cool, dry, and secure, you ensure every meal is a healthy one.
For all your summer feed and storage needs, visit Steinhauser’s. With multiple locations serving the Houston area, we offer a wide selection of fresh, high-quality feeds from top brands, as well as durable storage solutions. Our knowledgeable team can help you choose the right feed and supplies to get you through the hot Texas summer. Stop by Steinhauser’s in Houston today!