Alfalfa Hey for bedding and food

[Hamtastic]

I've been informed that alfalfa hay is good for hamsters under a year old (and timothy hay for older), and my hamsters are under a year old.

Do you think it's fairly safe to use strings of alfalfa hay around the cage for some bedding support and chewing? Is it softer than timothy hay?

This is what I'm thinking of for reference:
Small Pet Food: Alfalfa & Timothy Hay at Drs. Foster & Smith

(the photo at the top that says "alfalfa bales")

On that note, I'm also considering getting Oxbow Healthy Handfuls and includding a piece in my hams' daily mix.

[LoveMyHams]

I have some in my girl's cages, they don't really care. I never seen them doing anything with it. I don't know if having it be the only bedding is a good idea, but mixed in with other bedding like carefresh seems fine.

[thelittleteacup]

i use it in my cages! my hams love it! they eat, dig, store food in it and ive noticed in the hot weather they're sleeping on it! x