Smoothies Designed for Space Travelers
On June 5 at 10:30 AM, researchers from the University of Adelaide and the University of Nottingham unveiled specially emulsified drinks—smoothies—aimed at preventing appetite loss in astronauts exposed to microgravity. These beverages are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and stabilized using a microfluidic system. Testing is scheduled for upcoming Artemis missions and aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The findings, published in the journal ACS Food Science & Technology, stem from a joint effort between scientists in Australia and the United Kingdom. The team developed six core smoothie recipes made from:
- a blend of fish oil
- fruit acids
- coconut oil
- flavorings
- sugar
Each serving is 330 ml, and a single glass delivers one-third of an adult's daily recommended intake of omega-3.
Challenges of Eating in Space
Space research has highlighted serious dietary issues caused by microgravity. A major concern is appetite loss resulting from disrupted circadian rhythms, which can lead to space anorexia, along with calcium leaching from bones and muscle deterioration. Developing these nutrient-rich drinks represents a key step toward improving astronaut nutrition.
Svenja Schmidt, lead author of the project from the Center for Advanced Plant Technologies for Space, stated: 'These fortified drinks are a lifesaver when regular food fails to supply the body with enough nutrients. We added omega-3 fatty acids. They not only protect cells from cosmic radiation but also help bones recover faster.'
Plans call for sending the prepared mixtures to the orbital station for testing, as well as installing a device to produce them aboard Artemis mission spacecraft and the ISS. This innovation could mark a major advancement in space nutrition and astronaut health.
The development of these astronaut smoothies underscores the need to adapt food for space environments, where physiological changes can severely impact crew well-being. With long-duration missions like Artemis on the horizon, ensuring proper nutrition is critical for maintaining both physical and mental health. Trials on the ISS and during Artemis missions could pave the way for further breakthroughs in this field.