shelf life
noun
: the period of time during which a material may be stored and remain suitable for use
broadly
: the period of time during which something lasts or remains popular
Examples of shelf life in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Unlike common cucumbers that have a protective wax coating, wrapping helps keep English cucumbers fresh and extends their shelf life.
—
Aly Walansky,
Southern Living,
2 July 2026
The oils in natural almond, peanut, and cashew butters, as well as tahini, can separate and oxidize more rapidly in warm kitchens, leading to off-flavors and a shorter shelf life.
—
Anne Wolf,
Martha Stewart,
1 July 2026
Plastic remains a cost-efficient option for product packaging because of its lightweight nature, durability and shelf life.
—
Vishal Vivek,
Forbes.com,
29 June 2026
Such acids may also naturally extend shelf life by slowing mold growth.
—
Daryl Austin,
USA Today,
28 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
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Aly Walansky,
Southern Living,
2 July 2026
The oils in natural almond, peanut, and cashew butters, as well as tahini, can separate and oxidize more rapidly in warm kitchens, leading to off-flavors and a shorter shelf life.
—
Anne Wolf,
Martha Stewart,
1 July 2026
Plastic remains a cost-efficient option for product packaging because of its lightweight nature, durability and shelf life.
—
Vishal Vivek,
Forbes.com,
29 June 2026
Such acids may also naturally extend shelf life by slowing mold growth.
—
Daryl Austin,
USA Today,
28 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
Cite this Entry
“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
shelf life
noun
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
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