This tofu entrée was typical of crews’ menu choices during the later Space Shuttle period. As Shuttle and Space Station crews became more diverse and international, NASA introduced vegetarian, vegan, and other food options. Before each mission, the astronauts selected their meals from a list of hundreds of food items. As there was no onboard refrigerator or freezer, most foods stocked on the Shuttle were processed for storage at room temperature. Single servings were packaged in disposable plastic containers, pop-top cans, or foil pouches, and foods were eaten directly from these containers. Opaque packages like this held pre-cooked food ready to eat after warming unopened in the galley oven. NASA transferred a variety of spare food items to the Museum during the Shuttle and International Space Station era.
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
Dimensions
3-D: 20.3 x 12.1 x 1.3cm (8 x 4 3/4 x 1/2 in.)
Materials
Aluminum foil laminated polyethylene, Velcro, adhesive labels, thermostabilized food material
Inventory Number
A20120214000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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