A message from NASA initially seemed like a scam to Shianna Smart, co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan. However, after verifying its authenticity, 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.
This isn’t the first time that bison jerky from the brand has ventured into space. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield had enjoyed the same snack during a previous mission. Smart expressed her excitement at the unexpected opportunity to have their product selected again for space travel.
Smart hopes that the bison jerky’s journey to space will showcase its suitability for various purposes beyond just space missions. She envisions it as a convenient and nutritious option for kids’ lunches, sports activities, and travel.
Before receiving approval to be part of the space mission, the jerky underwent a rigorous selection process by both the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA. The CSA, in collaboration with NASA, offers Canadian food options to astronauts, allowing them to customize a portion of their food supply.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the CSA, explained that astronauts have input in selecting their food preferences, which are then evaluated through market surveys. Essential criteria for space food include an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and minimal crumbliness.
Local support plays a vital role in the success of small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix. Nolan Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, emphasized the importance of community backing for local enterprises. The center has been producing jerky for nearly two decades, catering to the specific needs of small clients in the region.
Apart from bison jerky, other Canadian products making their way to space include maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast. This highlights the diversity and quality of Canadian food products that astronauts can enjoy during their space missions.