This spacefood package contains chewing gum intended for use during the Apollo program, but was not used on a mission. The gum could be used directly from the package and did not require special handling. Gum was amongst the numerous snacks provided to Apollo astronauts.
Apollo astronauts were provided with three meals per day, providing approximately 2,800 calories. The food was protected with a 4-ply, laminated film coating. This protected the food from loss of flavor, moisture, oxygen, spoiling and excess crumbling, and was used on both the rehydratable and the bite-sized foods. The rehydratable foods also had an 8-quinolinol sulfate tablet attached to reduce spoilage in the used food wraps.
This package of food was found in the collection, but was likely transferred from NASA to the Museum in the 1970s or 1980s.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Food & Food Accessories
Manufacturer
Whirlpool Corporation
Dimensions
3-D: 7 x 7 x 0.6cm (2 3/4 x 2 3/4 x 1/4 in.)
Materials
Exterior: 4-ply laminate film, Velcro
Interior: Chewing gum
Inventory Number
A19990250000
Credit Line
Found In Collection. Donor Unknown at this Time. Found on NASM Premises.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.