What it Takes to Eat Millions of Miles from Earth

A Food Scientist’s Take on Mars Food System Design

Throughout human history, explorers have faced one constant, life-or-death challenge: food.

Whether crossing oceans or navigating polar landscapes, the success of a journey often depended on whether there was enough to eat.

The Mars mission is no different and while food might seem secondary to high-tech rockets or life-support systems, it’s critical. As a food scientist myself, I always like to point out that a mission only lasts as long as the food supply does.

So, what will it take to create a Mars-ready food system — one that could unlock humanity’s future in space or doom it?

Food is Life

For Mars-bound astronauts, food isn’t just a source of energy; it’s essential for morale and mental health. Research shows that food can offer comfort and a sense of normalcy — factors critical for a crew far from home and isolated from Earth’s resources.

On Earth, even military MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) are designed to be temporary solutions, as their lack of…