safety of old sunflower seed?

[Use Less]

I have two sacks of sunflower seed stored at least two years, maybe 3?? in a drum inside a small, wood-floored barn. It doesn't smell musty, but it has been exposed to extreme temp changes. I am wondering if it is safe to put in the birdfeeders? I love birds and would not care to poison them or be giving them seed which won't provide sufficient nutrition for the volume by virtue of age. If I don't use it in the feeders, I had thoughts of spreading it thickly and raking it in next spring, in a new patch I want to plow up, and see what comes up. I'd buy MUCH smaller quantities at a time after this. We don't fill the feeders for as many months due to bears now becoming relatively common in our section. Sue

[uyk7]

I think birds are pretty smart and won't eat anything that is bad for them. I would put some out and see what happens. If you want, you can send some my way.


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[Windy in Kansas]

I would think the seed would be safe but the oils therein may be rancid by now.

[Dexter]

Or try sprouting a handful (wet paper towel).
If they are duds, compost them.