What does "shelf life" refer to in food products?

Shelf life refers to the time a food product can be safely stored before it begins to deteriorate in quality, safety, or nutritional value. This concept is crucial in food safety and inventory management. When food is stored properly, it can maintain its intended quality and be safe for consumption for a specific duration, which varies based on the type of food, packaging, and storage conditions.

The definition encompasses both perishable items, which have shorter shelf lives and require refrigeration, and non-perishable items, which can be stored for longer periods. Understanding shelf life helps in minimizing food waste and ensures that consumers receive safe and high-quality products. In contrast, the other options address aspects of food sales, preparation time, or general "best before" indicators, none of which accurately define shelf life in the context of food products.