What unique chemical characteristic enables salal berries to remain on the bush all winter without developing mold?
Answer
High concentration of antioxidants
The chemical composition of the salal berry lends it a highly unusual resistance to spoilage, which was historically recognized by Indigenous peoples who stored them long-term. This resistance is linked directly to the berry's rich content of antioxidants, which includes tannins and flavonoids. This high load of protective compounds is theorized to be the plant's natural defense mechanism against decay. Because of this inherent quality, the berries can successfully remain viable on the bush throughout the winter season without succumbing to mold growth, which in turn translates into a significant practical benefit for human preservation methods.
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