ANSC Feeds Practice Exam

Animal feed should be stored in a cool, dry place that is protected from pests and moisture to maintain its nutritional value. This storage condition is critical for several reasons.

First, a cool environment helps to inhibit the growth of molds and bacteria, which can degrade the feed and pose health risks to animals. High temperatures can accelerate the spoilage of nutrients like vitamins and fats, leading to a loss of nutritional content.

Second, keeping the feed dry prevents the absorption of moisture, which can lead to clumping and microbial growth. Moisture can also foster a breeding ground for pests such as rodents or insects, which can contaminate or consume the feed.

Additionally, protection from pests is vital because they can damage the feed and introduce contaminants that compromise its safety and quality.

While other options may suggest methods of storage, they do not provide the ideal conditions for preserving the nutritional integrity of animal feed. A warm, humid place or direct sunlight can promote spoilage, while vacuum-sealing, while beneficial in some contexts, is not a necessary condition for effective feed storage as long as the aforementioned basic principles are followed.