The Evolution of Astronaut Snacks
Astronaut food has changed significantly over the decades. Early space missions, such as Mercury and Gemini, featured unappetizing puréed foods and cubes. Early challenges involved whether humans could swallow in microgravity, which led to a focus on weight, nutritional value, and packaging. Preventing crumbs and loose particles from interfering with equipment was crucial.
By the Apollo program, food variety improved, and freeze-drying became a common preservation method. Commercial candies became a regular part of an astronaut's diet later in space missions. Familiar food items were crucial for maintaining crew morale during long missions. This led to a menu expansion, including many well-known treats.
The Candy Selection in Space
Astronauts have access to a variety of commercially available sweets, not just freeze-dried candy. NASA's Space Food Systems Laboratory repackages these items into vacuum-sealed containers to prevent crumbs. Some of the candies that are frequently flown include:
- M&M's: Their hard shells make them a crumb-free snack.
- Chocolate Bars: These provide a sugar boost.
- Starbursts and Sweet Tarts: These candies do not create floating debris.
- Freeze-Dried Candies: These offer a unique texture.
Freeze-Drying and Eating in Microgravity
Freeze-drying, or lyophilization, was originally adapted by NASA for food preservation. The process involves freezing food and placing it in a vacuum chamber, causing the ice to sublimate into vapor. This removes up to 98% of the food's water content, making it lighter and giving it a long shelf life.
This technology was later commercialized, creating items like 'astronaut ice cream' and freeze-dried candies. However, eating in space differs from Earth. Microgravity can cause sinus congestion, which dulls an astronaut's sense of smell and taste. Astronauts often prefer strongly flavored foods, and candies with intense flavors can offer a sensory experience.
Comparing Space Snacks
| Snack Type | Preparation for Space | Texture | In Space? | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M&M's | NASA repackaging | Hard shell, chocolate | Yes | Prevents crumbs. |
| Freeze-Dried Candy | Commercially produced, sealed | Crunchy, airy | Yes | Lightweight and a morale booster. |
| Freeze-Dried Ice Cream | Commercially produced | Crumbly, porous | No (often) | Flaky texture creates crumbs. |
| Thermostabilized Meals | Heat-processed in pouches | Soft, similar to canned | Yes | Cooked and sealed for shelf life. |
| Tortillas | Natural form, pre-packaged | Soft, flat bread | Yes | Prevents crumbs. |
| Fresh Fruit | Delivered periodically | Natural, requires quick consumption | Yes | Short shelf-life luxury. |
The Importance of Food for Morale
Candy and snacks play a vital role in an astronaut's diet. These foods provide a psychological connection to home, reducing stress during missions. Shared meals, including snacks, also foster camaraderie among crew members.
Astronauts often customize their menu with personal favorites, which are assessed for spaceflight safety and repackaged. This personal touch is considered a key factor in keeping crews productive in space.
Conclusion: Sweet Treats in Space
The question, "Do astronauts eat freeze-dried candy?", has a nuanced answer. Freeze-dried candies are one of the many sweets that astronauts consume. The astronaut diet is more varied than commonly believed, including freeze-dried meals and commercial candies. The "astronaut ice cream" myth is a commercial novelty that rarely makes it into orbit. The selection of candy in space is a testament to the fact that there is still room for a little taste of home.
- For further information on NASA's food systems, see Space Food Systems - NASA
