shelf-stable

[ shelf-stey-buhl ]

adjective

1. (of food, liquid, or medicine) able to be stored safely for a long time without refrigeration:

   We always keep a couple of shelf-stable boxes of almond milk on hand now that both of us have gone vegan.

Word History and Origins

Origin of shelf-stable¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Shelf-stable proteins can include canned meats like chicken or tuna, as well as beans, lentils, nuts and nut butters.

From Salon

Shelf-stable fruits and vegetables, such as canned or dried options, fruit cups and applesauce, provide valuable nutrients.

From Salon

Many plant-based milks, the kind found in boxes in the coffee or baking aisles rather than the refrigerated section, are also shelf-stable and often fortified with essential nutrients.

From Salon

Examples include canned chicken with instant noodles, canned black beans and corn with a pouch of rice, or peanut butter on shelf-stable bread with dried fruit.

From Salon

Stouffer's, a familiar name in frozen dinners, is moving beyond the freezer aisle with a new shelf-stable offering aimed at expanding its mac and cheese empire.

From Salon