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

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.

Each cartridge is one serving, roughly equivalent to a double shot of espresso, and stays shelf-stable for up to 12 months. — ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026 Most of these types of foods are designed to be inexpensive, highly palatable and shelf-stable. — Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 These yogurt melts are made with 100 percent organic fruits and vegetables and are shelf-stable, mess-free, and easy to pack on the go. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026 Most are shelf-stable, so your job is making sure the liquid arrives in the bottle, not in your clothes. — Paul Jebara, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 July 2026 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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Browse Nearby Words

shelf sea

shelf-stable

shelfy

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Shelf-stable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf-stable. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

shelf-stable

adjective

Examples of shelf-stable in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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