Description
Food consumed by astronauts in outer space
Technical
Space food is a type of food product created and processed for consumption by astronauts during missions to outer space. Such food has specific requirements to provide a balanced diet and adequate nutrition for individuals working in space while being easy and safe to store, prepare and consume in the equipment-filled weightless environments of crewed spacecraft. Space food is commonly freeze-dried to minimize weight and ensure long shelf life. Before eating, it is rehydrated. Unmodified food, such as items of spirulina, fruit, and even a sandwich, have been brought into space. Packaging varies, including tubes, cans, and sealed plastic packages.
Science
Primary Reaction
Maillard Reaction
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
Wine Analogy
Like aged Madeira wine due to oxidative notes from long-term storage
Coffee Analogy
Similar to instant coffee's concentrated aromas after rehydration
Perfume Analogy
Comparable to some metallic/mineral notes in industrial-inspired fragrances
Origin & History
Civilization
Americans
Era
Late 20th century
Region
North America
Spread Path
Space exploration programs
Culinary Applications
Dietary
Molecular Pairing
Key Compounds Produced