Elderberry syrup is considered as “non-potentially hazardous” which means that it does not create a hospitable environment for harmful bacteria to grow. The instructions to refrigerate upon arrival are for quality purposes, not safety. Being outside of the fridge for even up to 4 or 5 days may take a few days off its full shelf life of 60 days but not compromise the safety of our product. We recommend getting it in the fridge upon arrival!