shelf-stable
adjective
shelf-sta·ble
ˈshelf-ˌstā-bəl 
: 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
Christine FosterExamples of shelf-stable in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Even shelf-stable miso should be refrigerated after opening.
—Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 21 Feb. 2026
Instead, find food pantries, mutual aid fridges, and food banks that accept unexpired shelf-stable items.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026
However, shelf-stable kombucha still contains vitamins and minerals.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
Each family gets fresh produce, shelf-stable items, and a bag of hygiene and cleaning products.
—Emily Witt, New Yorker, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf-stable
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Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 21 Feb. 2026
Instead, find food pantries, mutual aid fridges, and food banks that accept unexpired shelf-stable items.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026
However, shelf-stable kombucha still contains vitamins and minerals.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
Each family gets fresh produce, shelf-stable items, and a bag of hygiene and cleaning products.
—Emily Witt, New Yorker, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf-stable
Cite this Entry
“Shelf-stable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf-stable. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.
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