Shianna Smart, co-owner of Trails End Buffalo Stix in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, initially doubted the authenticity of an email from NASA. However, after engaging with the organization and receiving more details, she found it to be an exciting opportunity. Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk has chosen the bison jerky from her brand to accompany him on the upcoming NASA-SpaceX mission to the International Space Station, pending final approval.
Previously, in 2013, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield had also enjoyed the Saskatchewan bison jerky sticks during his time in orbit under the previous ownership of the business. Smart expressed her surprise and excitement at being selected again for a space mission.
She sees this opportunity as a way to showcase the quality and versatility of the jerky for various purposes beyond space travel, such as including it in kids’ lunches, for sports activities, or while traveling.
The selection process for the jerky involved evaluations by both the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and NASA before it was deemed suitable for space consumption. Natalie Hirsch, who oversees operational space medicine at the CSA, mentioned that while NASA provides most of the food for astronauts, they can personalize their remaining options, with the CSA offering Canadian choices based on astronaut preferences.
Key requirements for space-bound food products include an 18-month shelf life, space-compatible packaging, and the absence of crumbs to ensure cleanliness and safety onboard. Local support plays a crucial role in aiding small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix, as emphasized by Nolan Langer, assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre in Saskatoon.
The facility has been manufacturing jerky for nearly two decades, making it a vital resource for local businesses in Western Canada. Canadian products destined for space missions extend beyond bison jerky to include items like maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast.
