Kangina is the centuries-old Afghan method of preserving fresh grapes using mud and straw discs, allowing communities to store fruit for winter and merchants to transport it long distances.

The technique involves forming two bowl-shaped mud-and-straw discs, baking them in the sun, filling them with up to 2kg of un-bruised grapes like Taifi or Kishmishi, and sealing them tightly. This passive controlled-atmosphere storage restricts air, moisture, and microbes, while allowing oxygen in to keep grapes alive and carbon dioxide to slow their metabolism, preventing rot and drying.

Historical records show the practice dates back to at least the 12th century, with Andalusian agronomist Ibn al-'Awwam noting similar methods in his Book of Agriculture. A 2023 study confirmed kangina's effectiveness, finding it and polystyrene foam boxes as the top vessels for preserving grapes, though the containers are heavy and moisture-absorbent.

This eco-friendly technique remains vital for rural Afghan communities, demonstrating how ancient, low-tech solutions can offer practical preservation in resource-limited settings.