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 on October 1.
This isn’t the first time that Saskatchewan bison jerky will venture into space. Back in 2013, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield enjoyed the jerky sticks while in orbit. Smart expressed her excitement at the opportunity, stating that while she knew the product had been to space before, being chosen again was unexpected and thrilling.
Smart hopes that the bison jerky’s journey to space will demonstrate its suitability for various uses beyond Earth. She envisions it as a convenient snack for kids’ lunches, sports activities, or travel purposes. The jerky underwent a rigorous selection process by both the Canadian Space Agency and NASA before being approved for space travel.
Natalie Hirsch, overseeing operational space medicine at the Canadian Space Agency, mentioned that astronauts have the flexibility to customize some of their food choices, with Canadian options being provided by the CSA. Requirements for space food include an 18-month shelf life, space-friendly packaging, and a crumb-free nature.
Local support plays a vital role in the success of small businesses like Trails End Buffalo Stix, according to Nolan Langer, the assistant plant manager at the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre. The facility has been producing jerky for nearly two decades, serving as a crucial hub for small clients in western Canada.
Apart from bison jerky, Canadian products heading to space include maple syrup from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from the west coast, showcasing a variety of local offerings representing Canada in space exploration.