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.
These offerings are typically shelf-stable, processed, and widely distributed through grocery channels. Joe Cornell, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 The two businesses will be split between shelf-stable meals such as Heinz, Philadelphia and Kraft Mac and Cheese. Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025 The Great Depression saw Kraft introducing the mayo-like Miracle Whip and the iconic mac and cheese mix, one of the first pre-packaged, shelf-stable dinners. Alina Selyukh, NPR, 2 Sep. 2025 One will focus on faster-growing businesses, such as sauces, spreads and shelf-stable meals. Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 2 Sep. 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 12 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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