Space rations have come a long way in recent years. Now astronauts in the International Space Station can choose from more than 50 carefully prepared meals, including vegan and vegetarian options. Freeze-dried packets of food are still used as they are the best way to minimise weight. These are balanced with food that has been thermostabilised (cooked under intense heat) and supplemented with nuts, biscuits, fruit and vegetables. There are no refrigerators or freezers on board, so food must stay fresh for long periods at room temperature.
A balanced diet
Astronauts eat three meals a day. Space food scientists on the ground ensure that the food they eat provides them with the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Astronauts produce fewer red blood cells in space than they do on Earth, so iron is included sparingly - too much in the bloodstream can be dangerous. Vitamin D, however, is essential. The spacecraft’s shields block all sunlight, protecting the crew from harmful radiation, but also limiting the body’s ability to produce the vitamin through their skin.
Some astronauts notice changes in their senses of taste and smell in space. The lack of gravity can cause some people to crave or dislike certain foods or flavours. To cater for different tastes, more than 15 varieties of condiment, including liquid salt and pepper, are included on board. Astronauts tend to eat tortillas instead of bread as crumbs can float around and contaminate the atmosphere causing a hazard to crew and equipment. To deal with microgravity, most meals include some sort of sauce so that the food sticks to the cutlery.
Cosmic cuisine
In an attempt to boost morale among astronauts, the French National Centre of Space Studies and chef Richard Filippi came up with the idea of special event meals. Renowned chefs designed and produced meals that would both fit in with the practical and dietary constraints of space travel and provide a delicious break from the usual freeze dried food available.
How have space diets changed?
Apollo 11 (1969)
Meal A
Bacon squares, peaches, sugar cookie cubes, coffee, pineapple or grapefruit drink
Meal B
Beef stew, cream of chicken soup, date fruitcake, grape punch,orange drink
ISS (2007)
Breakfast
Rice Krispies, cinnamon roll, pears, vanilla breakfast drink, Kona coffee with cream and sugar, Earl Grey Tea with sugar
Lunch
Teriyaki chicken, macaroni cheese, rice pilaf, macadamia nuts, grapefruit drink
Dinner
Shrimp cocktail, beef tips with mushrooms, pasta with herbs, butterscotch pudding, strawberry drink, tea with lemon
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