Storing hay properly is a key aspect of maintaining freshness and nutrition for your furry family member. Improper storage may result in mold, loss of nutritional value (vitamins), reduced palatability, and other undesirable characteristics. Conversely, if stored correctly hay will retain nutrients and taste for at least 24 months. Some nutrients (such as protein and fiber) and minerals (such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium) remain in the hay indefinitely.
Oxbow's bagged hay comes in convenient packaging that is self-storing if kept in a cool, dry location out of direct sunlight. You can also store your hay in a Rubbermaid (or similar) container if you create some “breather holes” in the container to allow airflow. If you choose to store your hay in a separate container, Oxbow recommends retaining the original packaging until the product has been consumed by your pet, as information from the bag is extremely helpful to our team should any concerns or questions arise with your purchase.
As the hay ages, there will be some fading of color due to natural drying. However, keeping the hay out of direct sunlight will prevent "bleaching" of the hay's natural green color. Storing your hay in a temperature-controlled area is ideal, as hay stored in damp or wet areas may develop harmful mold and bacterial growth. Moreover, it is important to let hay “breathe,” particularly if the environment is humid – all of Oxbow’s hay bags come with small holes on the sides to allow for proper ventilation and airflow.
If you choose to store your hay in its original resealable bag, the below tips for resealing may be helpful:
If you have additional questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact us directly.