Space Food Revolution: Growing Protein for Mars Missions

The Challenge

• No grocery stores on Mars
• No resupply missions from Earth
• Solution? A new project by ESA and Solar Foods

The Solution: Solein

• Made by bacteria feeding on hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide
• Process: Gas fermentation
• Product: Nutrient-packed protein powder with a mild, umami flavor

Challenges in Space

• Microgravity affects liquids and gases
• Limited space for bioreactors
• No engineers on board to monitor the process
• Solution: Extra safety measures and monitoring systems

Ingredient Changes for Space

• No ammonia (dangerous in space)
• No excess water (precious resource)
• New ingredients:
• Recycled CO2 from astronauts' breath
• Hydrogen from water electrolysis
• Synthetic urea instead of ammonia

Benefits

• Feeds astronauts for hundreds of days
• Less space than traditional space meals
• Versatile: Can be used to make various foods (ice cream, ravioli, etc.)