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.
Pantry Awards 2025: Best Protein Staples Shop your favorite category below or keep scrolling for the year’s very best shelf-stable protein staples. Sara Coughlin, SELF, 10 June 2025 Farmers from across the region sell shelf-stable produce to the center, which then does the first-step food processing necessary for institutional kitchens. Riley Robinson, Christian Science Monitor, 8 June 2025 Put together a basic emergency kit with water and shelf-stable foods for up to a week, flashlights, backup batteries, a first-aid kit and moist towelettes. Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 6 June 2025 These shelf-stable picks are often loaded with high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that offer a range of health benefits. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 5 June 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 17 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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