FINCHforum

Hi,
I was going through my baskets of bird supplies and discovered an open package of Exact handfeeding formula. I thought it was in the freezer this whole time.... It says on the back to use within 45-60 days, or freeze for extended storage. It has been open since mid February. Does it really "go bad" or would it still be okay to use if I throw it in the freezer now? I hate to waste it, but I don't know what is in it that would spoil. I certainly don't want to use feed it to babies if it is no good anymore!

Shoots, I buy Exact by the plastic jar and I don't store mine in the freezer after I open them. I better go read the back to make sure. However, I've been using Exact for years and have never stored in the freezer and the formula has always stayed fresh and I've raised many many chicks. I think you'll be fine. You could store the formula in the freezer now if you wanted. As long as the formula was kept dry and away from direct sun, it should be okay.

Thanks bugaboo! I don't anticipate even needing it for awhile, as I am not letting my zebras nest now. But I want to have it on hand when they do, just in case.... And as I said, I hate to just toss it in the trash if it's still okay.

Oh, certainly. I hate wasting too, if at all possible. It should be perfectly fine and absolutely, it's wonderful to have some handfeeding formula on hand for emergencies. I dread handfeeding as it's a strenuous and tedious task, but I've saved many lives by stepping in and "adopting" abandoned and unfed chicks.