spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

1

: the act or process of spoiling

especially : the process of decay in foodstuffs

2

: something spoiled or wasted

3

: loss by spoilage

Synonyms of spoilage

• decomposition
• decay

Examples of spoilage in a Sentence

The milk should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.

in the days before refrigeration, spoilage was a constant problem

Recent Examples on the Web

Avoid storing food directly in the can, which can cause spoilage and off-flavors. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 13 July 2026

Keep greens away from ethylene-producing fruits, such as apples and bananas, as exposure can cause premature spoilage. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 13 July 2026

Aim to give kiwi some distance from other ethylene-producing produce items, including apples, avocados, mangoes, and tomatoes, as these may speed up spoilage. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026

The technology combines miniature gas sensors with machine-learning software to identify chemical signatures associated with food spoilage and common allergens. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

: the action of spoiling or the condition of being spoiled