Frequently Asked Questions about ACCO Feeds®
How can I tell how fresh my feed is?
ACCO Feeds® 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 numbers and/or letters. The first two digits (may be letters or numbers) indicate which plant made that product, and then there are 4 digits strung together - the first digit indicates the year, so anything made in 2012 would have a 2, anything after the 1st of 2013 has a 3. 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.
Example: WB2250 or 592250. These Lot codes would indicate product made in 2012, on the 250th day of the year, or September 7th.
The first day of each month corresponds with the following Julian Date code:
- 001 = Jan 1st
- 032 = Feb 1st
- 060 = March 1st
- 091 = April 1st
- 121 = May 1st
- 152 = June 1st
- 182 = July 1st
- 213 = Aug 1st
- 244 = Sept 1st
- 274 = Oct 1st
- 305 = Nov 1st
- 335 = Dec 1st
What is the typical shelf life for feeds?
The shelf life of feeds can vary greatly, based on the type of feed and the conditions it is stored in.
Textured (or "sweet") feeds typically have the shortest shelf life, as the higher moisture content makes them more prone to mold issues. Pelleted feeds have a longer shelf life, and extruded feeds have the longest shelf life.
The biggest factor, though, is storage conditions. When stored in dry, cool conditions, from the date of manufacture through storage at a dealership and at farm, all the way to feeding, nutrient levels in animal feeds can be good for up to 6 months, although palatability may fall off some during that time.
However, changes in heat or humidity can take shelf life down to just a few weeks. It is generally recommended to keep purchases of feed smaller and more frequent to help ensure optimal freshness:
- Use pelleted feeds within 60 days during summer months and 90 days during winter months.
- Use textured feeds within 45 days during summer months and 60 days during winter months.
It is also important to always inspect feed prior to use for bugs, mold, or other evidence of damage.
What should I do if my feed is moldy?
Never offer moldy hay or feed to animals. Store feed properly to prevent exposure to moisture or contamination by insects or other pests. If you suspect your feed is spoiled when you purchase it, you can return it to your retailer within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.
Do ACCO Feeds® contain Genetically Modified Grains?
Yes. Some of our products may contain genetically modified ingredients. It’s important to remember that all grain is technically genetically-modified, as simple plant breeding is a form of genetic modification.
Agricultural biotechnology (including genetically engineering grain in a laboratory to enhance desired traits) is thoroughly researched, regulated, and safe to feed your animal. GMO ingredients are prevalent in the feed supply chain. Because grain for feed is purchased in bulk from large storage facilities, it is not possible to tell which corn has been genetically engineered. It is possible to specifically purchase “non-GMO” grains, but this comes at a premium price. Producing feed with non-GMO grains would be cost prohibitive.
The US Department of Agriculture has facts about Agriculture Biotechnology on their website: http://www.ers.usda.gov/briefing/biotechnology/
Does ACCO Feeds® offer any organic products?
At this time, ACCO Feeds® does not offer any organic feeds.
