Shianna Smart, co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, initially doubted the legitimacy of an email from NASA. However, after further communication, she was thrilled to learn that Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk had chosen their bison jerky for the upcoming NASA-SpaceX mission to the International Space Station. This selection process involved approval from both the CSA and NASA.
The bison jerky had previously made its way to space in 2013 when Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield indulged in it during his orbit. Smart expressed excitement at the opportunity for her product to journey to space once again and hoped that its inclusion in the mission would showcase its suitability for various purposes such as kids’ lunches, sports, and travel.
Natalie Hirsch from the Canadian Space Agency mentioned that while NASA provides most of the food for astronauts, they have the freedom to customize a portion of their meals. Canadian options, including the selected jerky, are provided by the CSA based on astronaut preferences and market surveys.
The jerky had to meet specific requirements such as an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and the absence of crumbs. 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 instrumental in producing jerky for nearly two decades, offering a unique processing service for small clients in the region.
Canadian products sent to space can vary, including items like maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast. Smart and her team are eager to see their jerky reach new heights and potentially inspire others to enjoy it in various settings, including outer space.