A mission to Mars would approximately take nine months to get there, so the astronauts would need food with a long lifespan.
Plastic packaging can keep microwaveable food safe at room temperature for one year. Scientists at Washington State University found that ready-to-eat macaroni cheese was edible for up to three years using new techniques of food preservation.
Through a new technique described as ‘microwave-assisted thermal sterilisation’ and by adding a metal oxide coating it can increase the time taken for oxygen to break through the packaging and start decomposition.
Shyam Sablani, a professor at Washington State University, said: “We need a better barrier to keep oxygen away from the food and provide longer shelf life similar to aluminium foil and plastic laminate pouches.
“We’ve always been thinking of developing a product that can go to Mars but with technology that can also benefit consumers. NASA knows about our work but we’re just getting to the point where we can talk to them with a proven product.”
The team of scientists are aiming to add this new technology to the International Space Station and they are hoping to extend the lifespan of food to five years.