Abstract: A method and additive for enhancing the shelf life of food products is disclosed. The additive comprises a combination of a diluent fat with a plant-derived phytosterol to produce a plasticized blend agent. The plasticized blend agent can be incorporated into the formulation for a wide variety of prepared food products without negatively altering the taste characteristics of the foods products or the manufacturability of the food product. Incorporation of the plasticized blend agent into the food products provides an enhanced and more stable shelf life for the food product. The plasticized blend agent of the present disclosure offers a naturally derived product that significantly enhances the shelf life of food products, especially baked goods.