What You Need to Know
The sand’s high porosity allows excess moisture to drain while maintaining relative humidity of 60–70 %, preventing desiccation and limiting fungal growth. Low temperatures (5–12 °C) and oxygen concentrations below 5 % suppress enzymatic activity and aerobic respiration, reducing ethylene production and delaying senescence. As a result, carbohydrate content (glucose, sucrose) and flavor are largely retained over 4–6 months.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Suppression of enzymatic activity and microbial growth via low temperature and low oxygen