Which of the following foods would likely be the most shelf stable?

Instant coffee is likely to be the most shelf stable among the options listed. Shelf stability refers to the ability of food to remain safe and maintain its quality without refrigeration over an extended period. Instant coffee is dehydrated, which significantly reduces its moisture content and inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast that could lead to spoilage. As a result, it can be stored safely at room temperature for long durations without any significant loss in flavor or quality.

In contrast, fresh vegetables, dairy products, and raw meat have much shorter shelf lives and require refrigeration to prevent spoilage. Fresh vegetables can spoil quickly due to moisture and microbial growth. Dairy products, due to their nature, can spoil and become unsafe if not kept at the correct temperatures. Raw meat is highly perishable and can harbor harmful bacteria, making it unsuitable for long-term storage without freezing or refrigeration. Hence, instant coffee stands out as the most shelf stable food option in this scenario.