It has been used as a blood tonic and reproductive stimulus for birds in the past. It can be a gastrointestinal irritant in small animals, however, no cases of toxicity have been noted in birds. No nutrient value is lost in freezing or refrigeration. Your seeds will remain fresh as the day you received them. Freezing or refrigeration temps of 40 degrees or below for long periods of time will retard insect infestation.
Insects lay eggs in seeds before harvesting.
These again will hatch in warm, damp environments. While these insects do no harm, they are obviously undesirable in the home. Never mix new seeds with old in the same container. Always clean your receptacle thoroughly before adding new seed. Clean all spilled seeds immediately.