Shelf life Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shelf life
[ʃɛlf laɪf ]
Definitions
food preservation
The length of time that a product can be stored before it is no longer safe to consume. It is determined by factors such as the type of product, packaging, and storage conditions.
Examples of usage
- The shelf life of milk is typically around one week.
- The shelf life of canned goods can be several years if stored properly.
product quality
The period of time during which a product remains usable, functional, or effective. It is often used in reference to non-perishable items like batteries or cosmetics.
Examples of usage
- The shelf life of this battery is two years.
- Cosmetics have a limited shelf life once opened.
Translations
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Origin of 'shelf life'
The term 'shelf life' originated in the early 20th century in the context of food preservation and storage. It became more widely used as advancements in packaging and preservation techniques allowed for longer shelf lives of various products. Today, 'shelf life' is a common term used across industries to describe the durability and longevity of goods.