Shianna Smart, co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, initially doubted the legitimacy of an email she received from NASA. However, after engaging in discussions and gathering more details, she was thrilled about the opportunity. Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk chose the bison jerky from her brand to accompany him on the upcoming NASA-SpaceX mission to the International Space Station, scheduled for October 1 pending final approval.
In a recent interview with Radio Canada, Smart shared her excitement, recalling how Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield had previously enjoyed their bison jerky sticks during an orbit in 2013 under the previous ownership of the business. She expressed surprise at being selected again for a space mission.
Smart hopes that the bison jerky’s journey to space will showcase its versatility for various occasions such as kids’ lunches, sports activities, and travel. The jerky underwent a meticulous selection process by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA before receiving approval for its cosmic voyage.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the CSA, explained that while NASA supplies most of the food for astronauts, they have the flexibility to customize some options. The CSA contributes Canadian food choices to meet astronauts’ preferences, ensuring a shelf life of 18 months, space-compatible packaging, and crumb-free products.
Nolan Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, emphasized the importance of local support for businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix. The facility has been producing jerky for nearly two decades, catering to small clients in western Canada who rely on their processing capabilities.
Canadian products selected for space missions extend beyond bison jerky to include items like maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast. The involvement of local businesses in supplying unique products for astronauts highlights the diversity and quality of Canadian offerings in space exploration.