Shianna Smart, the co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix, initially doubted the legitimacy of an email she received from NASA. However, after engaging in discussions and obtaining more details, she found the opportunity thrilling. Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk has chosen the bison jerky from her brand to consume during the upcoming NASA-SpaceX mission to the International Space Station scheduled for October 1, pending final approval.
This isn’t the first time that Saskatchewan bison jerky has made its way to space. Back in 2013, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield enjoyed the same snack while the business was under different ownership. 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 highlight its versatility for various occasions such as kids’ lunches, sports activities, and travel. The jerky underwent a rigorous selection process by both the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA before being cleared for space travel.
According to Natalie Hirsch from the Canadian Space Agency, astronauts have the flexibility to customize a portion of their food supplies. While NASA supplies about three-quarters of the food, the CSA offers Canadian options to astronauts based on their preferences. Specific requirements for space food include an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and a crumb-free composition.
Nolan 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. The center has been producing jerky for nearly two decades, serving as a vital hub for small clients in western Canada.
Apart from bison jerky, Canadian products heading to space encompass a variety of items such as maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec, as well as salmon from the west coast. This initiative showcases the diversity and quality of Canadian food products reaching beyond the confines of our planet.