Shianna Smart, co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, initially doubted the legitimacy of an email she received from NASA. However, upon further communication, she was thrilled to discover that Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk had chosen their bison jerky for the upcoming NASA-SpaceX mission to the International Space Station on October 1, pending final approval.
In a recent interview with Radio Canada, Smart expressed her excitement at the opportunity, especially considering that Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield had previously enjoyed their bison jerky sticks in space back in 2013. Reflecting on this honor, Smart mentioned she never expected a repeat experience and found the news exhilarating.
The selected jerky underwent a rigorous selection process by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA before being approved for space travel, aiming to showcase its quality and suitability for various destinations beyond Earth. Smart hopes that the exposure in space will highlight the jerky as a great option for kids’ lunches, sports activities, and travel.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the CSA, revealed that while NASA supplies most of the food for astronauts, they can customize a portion, including Canadian options offered by the CSA. She explained that astronauts’ preferences are considered in the menu planning, ensuring a diverse and personalized selection for the mission.
Requirements for space-bound food include an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and a no-crumbs policy. Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, emphasized the importance of local support for small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix, which has been producing jerky for nearly two decades.
The journey of Canadian products to space extends beyond bison jerky, encompassing items like maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast. This opportunity not only showcases Canadian products but also highlights the innovation and quality of local businesses contributing to space missions.
