Shianna Smart, the co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, initially doubted the legitimacy of an email from NASA. However, after engaging in discussions and receiving more details, she found it to be a thrilling experience. 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.
Previously, in 2013, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield had enjoyed the Saskatchewan bison jerky sticks while the business was owned by someone else. Smart expressed her surprise and excitement at being approached again for this opportunity.
She expressed hope that the bison jerky’s journey to space would highlight its suitability for various purposes such as kids’ lunches, sports activities, and travel. The jerky underwent a meticulous selection process by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA before being cleared for space travel.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the Canadian Space Agency, mentioned that while NASA provides a significant portion of the astronauts’ food, they have the freedom to customize the remaining portion. The CSA ensures Canadian options are also available to them based on their preferences.
Requirements for space-bound food include an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and a crumb-free nature. Local support plays a vital role in the success of small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix, as emphasized by Nolan Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre in Saskatoon.
Langer highlighted the significance of local processing facilities like theirs, as they cater to the needs of small clients who have limited options for such services in Western Canada. Additionally, Canadian products heading to space include items like maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast.