Upon receiving an email from NASA, Shianna Smart initially doubted its authenticity, considering it a potential scam. However, after engaging in discussions and gathering more details, the co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix, located in Gull Lake, southwestern Saskatchewan, found the experience exhilarating.
In an interview with Radio Canada, Smart revealed that Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk had chosen the bison jerky produced by her brand for consumption 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 in space when the business was under different ownership.
Expressing her excitement, Smart mentioned, “I knew it had been sent to space before… but never anticipated a repeat request, so this was quite thrilling.”
Smart hopes that the jerky bound for space will demonstrate its suitability for various other purposes.
She expressed, “I am hopeful that many individuals will see it and recognize its value for their children’s lunches, sports activities, or travel needs.”
The bison jerky underwent a rigorous selection process by the CSA and NASA before being approved for space travel.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the Canadian Space Agency, mentioned that while NASA supplies about three-quarters of the food for astronauts, they have the liberty to personalize the remaining portion. The CSA offers Canadian options to the astronauts.
Hirsch explained, “We consult with our astronauts post-assignment to understand their preferences, conducting market surveys based on their choices.” She mentioned additional criteria such as an 18-month shelf life, space-compatible packaging, and minimal crumbs.
Regarding jerky products, Hirsch noted, “Typically, jerky has a long shelf life, which is advantageous in space where refrigeration is unavailable.”
Nolan Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre in Saskatoon, emphasized the importance of local support for small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix. He mentioned the center’s two-decade history of jerky production.