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According to Science in Africa magazine a zeer will keep tomatoes fresh – or edible - for up to 20 days; even meat can be kept in good condition for a week or two. Perfect for camping or a power outtage.
Here’s What You Do
Find two large flowerpots – earthenware not plastic! One should be about 2-3 cm's larger in diameter than the other. If they have holes at the bottom plug with a piece of clay or cork.
Put a layer of sand in the bottom of the larger pot.
Place the smaller pot inside the larger. The layer of sand needs to be thick enough for the two pots to end up about the same height.
Carefully fill between the pots with sand.
Pour water on the sand until it can’t absorb any more.
Cover with a damp cloth.
Check the water and the cloth regularly: you’ll need to refill about twice a day.
Keep in a dry, well-ventilated space.
How it Works
The water in the sand evaporates in the heat. This in turn draws heat out from the inner pot, thus keeping cool food stored inside. By keeping the sand wet, it becomes an ongoing process.
