Milne Feeds Guide to Storage & Handling

The manufacturing of commercial stock feed is a very complex and involved process. It all starts with the selection of numerous ingredients that are best suited for the particular animal the ration is designed for. The form of these ingredients can range from cereal and grains to powder substances, with coarser materials being ground to a more suitable size. Once all the ingredients are in the required form, these ingredients are then mixed together, then go through a pelleting process where steam is added to facilitate the pelleting process and enhance the digestibility. After pelleting, the feed is passed through a cooler, to cool the pellets to ambient temperature. The cooled pellets are then ready for despatch, storage, and eventual use.

The unique nature of pelleted feed necessitates special storage requirements. Unlike grains and cereals, pellets can be hygroscopic and are likely to absorb and release moisture as the surrounding atmosphere changes. Pellets should be stored in a waterproof ventilated silo to accommodate the special needs of pellets. Silos should also be regularly emptied and cleaned, at least every six months. Most silo manufacturers will be able to advise you on the right storage silo for pellets. It is not advisable to store pellets in sealed silos. Storage of pellets in a shed is acceptable, provided normal precautions are taken to prevent any contamination of the feed (vermin, fertiliser, water, etc). For optimal performance pellets should be used within 90 days from date of manufacture.

Handling

Although Milne Feeds' pellets are manufactured to high quality standards, they may be prone to breaking up with repeated handling. It is therefore advised that the correct equipment be used when handling pellets to minimise the chance of breakage. Pellets can also be dusty, so remember to use the correct safety equipment, especially in confined spaces.

Silo Safety & Handling


For further information regarding the storage and handling of pellets please contact your Milne Feeds representative or our sales team on 9351 0700