shelf life

noun

1. the term or period during which a stored commodity remains effective, useful, or suitable for consumption:

   Many medicines have a very short shelf life.

shelf life

noun

1. the length of time a packaged food, chemical, etc, will last without deteriorating

Word History and Origins

Origin of shelf life¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Improvements in milk quality, milk production, transportation, refrigeration and processing all led to greater quantities of milk, greater shelf life and greater access to products across the U.S.

From Salon

The USDA’s Farm Storage Facility Loan Program and microloan programs will be tasked with improving storage and extending the shelf life of produce.

From Salon

With a shelf life of 35 days, blood stocks need to be continually replenished.

From BBC

But Thomas, a collaborator on the edible coating project, doesn't necessarily think extending the shelf life of fresh pawpaws is the way to go.

From Salon

Wetting berries will increase the growth of any germs present and reduce their shelf life.

From Salon