shelf-stable

adjective

shelf-sta·​ble ˈshelf-ˌstā-bəl How to pronounce shelf-stable (audio)
: processed or packaged to withstand prolonged storage without refrigeration
All the rage in Europe and Latin America, boxed shelf-stable milk has yet to catch on with U.S. consumers.Christine Foster

Examples of shelf-stable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Peanuts are shelf-stable, portable, and are high in filling nutrients like protein and fiber. Jillian Kubala, Health, 31 Mar. 2025 Freezing can preserve virtually any food, but the energy required to freeze, store, and distribute frozen foods drives prices up higher than their shelf-stable counterparts. Ali Bouzari, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Mar. 2025 The rest of its ingredients make up a veritable bouquet of vegetables: Carrots, celery, cabbage, onion, parsley, and turnip are diluted and mixed with the caramel color to make a shelf-stable seasoning condiment that boosts a wide variety of dishes. Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2025 These shelf-stable treats that don’t require refrigeration, found in almost every patisserie, prove that even the French believe no trip is complete without bring a sweet treat with you! Lanee Lee, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shelf-stable

Word History

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shelf-stable was in 1952

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Cite this Entry

“Shelf-stable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf-stable. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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