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Principal Investigator:
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Ann Barrett, Ph.D.
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Organization:
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U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center
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Project Ended:
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The objective of this project is to develop shelf-stable, highly acceptable, food with increased nutrient (vitamins) stability for extended space missions utilizing innovative processing and packaging technologies. There are two research thrusts. For the first thrust area, the researchers will formulate, test and optimize the quality and nutrient content of a range of fortified shelf-stable foods. The focus will be on extruded/pressed low-water activity bar-type products. Advances in innovative pre-treatment technologies (encapsulation) for vitamins will be assessed, as well as synergy with matrix chemical character. For the second thrust area, different packaging technologies will be investigated with research focused on the interaction of packaging material with various innovative sterilization processes such as microwave heating, irradiation and high pressure treatment.
The availability of highly nutritious and health-promoting food is a factor that is a significant prerequisite for prolonged space travel. The design of feeding and nutritional strategies for multi-year, non-resupplied flights is an undertaking requiring substantial research and development; it is also an endeavor and that could be founded upon the existing, considerable knowledge and experience base at Natick Soldier RD&E Center.
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