Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that bring joy to backyard birders across North America. To attract these flying jewels, many people use premixed hummingbird nectar, often referred to as hummingbird food. This commercially made nectar offers convenience for busy homeowners who want to easily feed hummingbirds.
A common question about premixed hummingbird food is whether it expires and if so, how long it lasts. Below we’ll explore the shelf life of store-bought hummingbird nectar and signs that it has spoiled. We’ll also provide tips on proper storage and when to discard old nectar.
What is in premixed hummingbird food?
Premixed hummingbird nectar typically contains three main ingredients:
Sugar
White granulated sugar provides the main source of calories and energy for hummingbirds. The sugar is dissolved in water to create a nectar-like solution.
Dyes
Red dyes are added to premixed nectar to help attract hummingbirds, since they are visually drawn to red flowers. Common dyes include Red Dye #40 and Red Dye #3.
Preservatives
Preservatives like potassium sorbate are used to inhibit mold growth and extend the shelf life of premade nectar. Without preservatives, the nectar would quickly spoil.
Understanding the basic ingredients can help determine how long store-bought hummingbird food stays fresh and when it’s time to replace it.
Does premixed hummingbird food expire?
Yes, premixed hummingbird nectar does eventually expire and go bad. Like most foods and beverages, it has a limited shelf life. However, unopened nectar will typically last 12-18 months when properly stored. Once opened, it’s best to use premixed nectar within 2-3 weeks.
The exact expiration date depends on the ingredients, container, and how it’s stored. Below are some general guidelines for how long hummingbird nectar lasts:
Unopened shelf life:
– Powdered concentrate: 18-24 months
– Liquid concentrate: 12-18 months
– Ready-to-use nectar: 9-12 months
After opening:
– Powdered concentrate: 6 months
– Liquid concentrate: 4-6 weeks
– Ready-to-use nectar: 2-3 weeks
These timeframes indicate maximum freshness based on the manufacturer’s recommended use-by date. The nectar won’t necessarily spoil immediately after these dates, but quality steadily declines.
How to tell if premixed nectar has expired
Here are some signs that premixed hummingbird food has spoiled and should be discarded:
Mold growth
Look closely at the nectar surface, sides of the container, or any solids floating in the liquid. If you see fuzzy mold of any color, it has definitely expired.
Sour smell
Give it a sniff test. Fresh nectar has a sweet smell. If you detect a vinegar-like or fermented odor, that indicates spoilage.
Fizzing or bubbling
Fermentation causes carbonation. If you see bubbles rising after shaking or pouring, the nectar has likely gone bad.
Separation
In ready-made pre-bottled nectar, a separation of liquids is normal during storage. But if left long enough, the sugars and dye can fully settle on the bottom into a thick sludge, which means it’s too old to use.
Discoloration
While some separation is normal, extreme darkening, browning, or fading of the red color points to degradation of the dyes and sugars.
Crystallization
In powdered concentrates, hard white sugar crystals forming inside the package is a sign the shelf life has passed.
Expired date
Check the use-by or best-by date stamped on the product. If it has passed, the nectar quality likely has declined.
Trust your eyes and nose – if anything seems off from a fresh, just-made batch, err on the side of caution and replace your stock.
Proper storage to maximize shelf life
To get the full 12-18 months of life from unopened premade hummingbird nectar, be sure to store it correctly:
Keep cool
Store nectar containers in a pantry, cabinet, or refrigerator set below 70°F. Heat and humidity speed up spoilage. The cooler it’s kept, the longer it will last.
Avoid light
Exposure to sunlight and light causes the nutrients and colors to degrade faster. Keep nectar in the dark until ready to use.
Check packaging
Make sure lids, caps, and seals are tight so no moisture or air enters. With powdered mixes, ensure the foil lining is intact.
Mind the date
When purchasing new nectar, check dates and pick packages with the farthest from expiring. Track dates once opened and write them on the label.
Following the product instructions for storage before and after opening will extend the shelf life. But remember, once a container is open, use the contents within 2-3 weeks.
When to throw out expired nectar
Here are some general guidelines on when to discard hummingbird food:
Unopened
– 1-2 years past the expiration date marked on the package
– Separation, crystallization, discoloration, or odor issues
Opened
– 2-3 weeks after first opening, even if no signs of spoilage
– Immediately at first sight or smell of mold
– Within 4-6 weeks if stored properly in the refrigerator
Don’t take risks with old nectar. When in doubt, throw it out and make a fresh batch. It’s healthier for the hummingbirds and better supports your efforts to attract them.
Plus cleaning and replacing feeders regularly helps prevent build up of black mold that can harm hummingbirds. Every 2-4 weeks is ideal, but at minimum once a month.
Is expired nectar dangerous for hummingbirds?
Consuming spoiled hummingbird food does carry some risks including:
Digestive issues
The fermented sugars and chemicals can potentially cause stomach upset in hummingbirds.
Mold toxicity
Mold spores and mycotoxins if ingested in large amounts could make birds sick.
Dirty feeders
Unsanitary, moldy feeders spread deadly diseases that can devastate hummingbirds.
Nutritional deficiency
Expired nectar loses nutritional value, depriving hummingbirds of needed calories.
While an occasional lapse likely poses minimal risk, repeatedly feeding spoiled formula can stress birds’ health and potentially be fatal. Always discard nectar at the first signs of expiration.
Making fresh homemade nectar
For the healthiest, most nutritious nectar free of preservatives, make your own batches using just sugar and water:
Ingredients
– 1 part white sugar
– 4 parts hot water
Do not use honey, brown sugar, syrups, or artificial sweeteners which are unsafe for hummingbirds. Only use plain granulated cane sugar.
Directions
1. Boil water first, then remove from heat.
2. Slowly stir in sugar until fully dissolved.
3. Allow to cool before filling feeders.
4. Store extra in the refrigerator up to 1-2 weeks.
Making small amounts weekly or biweekly ensures it’s always fresh. Avoid adding food coloring, but clean the feeder regularly to invite hummingbirds.
FAQs
Does refrigerating premixed nectar extend its shelf life?
Yes, keeping an opened container in the refrigerator helps extend use-by time to 4-6 weeks. The chill slows fermentation and mold growth. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before filling feeders.
Can old nectar make hummingbirds sick?
While rare, it’s possible for mold, fermentation byproducts, and weakened nutrition to make birds ill if they consume spoiled nectar, especially over extended time. Always discard expired nectar as a precaution.
How long does homemade nectar last?
Freshly homemade nectar lasts 5-7 days at room temperature or 2 weeks maximum in the refrigerator. For longest shelf life, make smaller batches weekly.
What if my nectar crystallizes or separates?
As long as it’s still within date, you can remix powder concentrates until smooth. Separation of pre-bottled nectar is normal – just shake well before use. If sugar crystals form in homemade nectar, reheat to dissolve.
Can I reuse old hummingbird feeders?
Yes, it’s fine to reuse the actual plastic feeders after cleaning with a bottle brush, soap and water. Just be sure to replace the old nectar with fresh recipe. Discard nectar, don’t top off.
Conclusion
Premixed hummingbird nectar and concentrate does eventually expire, with opened products lasting 2-6 weeks and unopened up to 1-2 years. Avoid feeding spoiled, potentially harmful nectar by watching dates, storing properly, and discarding at signs of mold, smell, separation, or discoloration. Making small weekly batches of fresh homemade nectar is the healthiest approach. With proper care, you can attract hummingbirds all season while keeping these special birds safe and well-fed.
| Nectar Type | Unopened Shelf Life | After Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered Concentrate | 18-24 months | 6 months |
| Liquid Concentrate | 12-18 months | 4-6 weeks |
| Ready-to-use Nectar | 9-12 months | 2-3 weeks |
| Signs of Spoilage | Description |
|---|---|
| Mold Growth | Fuzzy mold anywhere in nectar or container |
| Sour Smell | Vinegar-like odor |
| Fizzing/Bubbling | Carbonation when pouring |
| Separation | Clear division of liquid and solids |
| Discoloration | Unnatural darkening or fading |
| Crystallization | Granulated sugar clumps in powder |
