3D Printing of Food for Space Mission

According to some information that we have gathered, in the 2030s, NASA plans to send a crew to Mars, the closest planet with potential for colonization. These astronauts will fly for longer than anyone has ever before, and the mission could take about 3 years. Such incredibly long-duration space missions will only be possible if safe, nutritious, and acceptable foods with sufficient shelf life are available.

The importance of variety- Imagine being stuck in a 20 m3 transit spacecraft or 1000 m3 of Martian habitat for almost 3 years and eating the same foods on rotation1. The importance of variety cannot be overstated in preventing menu fatigue which can lead to lower food intake, weight loss, and poor nutrient intake, which can impact astronaut health. Food variety and acceptability have unsurprisingly been linked to crew wellbeing and reduced stress in prolonged missions. Hence, alternative space food systems are being explored to support the crews on long-duration missions. At the moment foods for astronauts typically have shelf lives of 18 months. These do not meet the 5-year shelf life required for foods targeted for Mars missions. Importantly, key nutrients like vitamin B and C degrade over time, and foods missing key nutrients, which increase susceptibility to micronutrient deficiencies, or foods that are unpalatable, will not be adequate for long-duration space exploration.

 Other possibilities

 As well as on Mars, there is an interest in 3D food printing right here on Earth as this technology could enable food formulations for specific dietary needs. For example, texture-modified foods are needed for people with dysphagia which is highly prevalent in care home populations. For patient safety, pureed foods need to be served at the correct textures and these can often look and taste unappealing leading to decreased intake and an increased risk of malnutrition. 3D printing could be used in the production of more attractive pureed foods and thickened liquids, with standardized textures and enhanced taste sensory experiences.

So on Earth and on Mars 3D food printing could be part of the future of eating!