The Reason Why You’re Not Allowed to Have Bread in Space


Limitations in storage space and zero gravity pose a problem for the astronauts in consuming nutritious food. The space program has long avoided many common foods that can’t function as space food. In all of its forms, bread is a big no-no in space. On the other hand, they sought refuge in tortillas instead. Let’s find out why. 

Because it Breaks Apart

Breadcrumbs don’t fare well in space. They float about, increasing the chances of getting inside an astronaut’s eyes, or they might accidentally inhale the crumbs or get into the crevices of any equipment, causing a short circuit. These crumbs can also get jammed into the air vents and start a fire. Or, a small quantity of barley or wheat can find its way into an experiment that wasn’t supposed to have these ingredients. Given the astronauts’ already remote location, everything must be in top working order because receiving any sort of help, if any issues arise, is near impossible. Compromising the lives of astronauts for a piece of bread isn’t worth the risk.

Tortillas Instead of Bread

Instead of bread, NASA has allowed astronauts to consume tortillas. They don’t break apart or crumble, have a longer shelf life, and take up significantly less storage because of their flat surface. Companies like Bake In Space have been experimenting with and creating fresh bread for astronauts recently. Before NASA starts holding routine bake sales in space, several obstacles must be cleared. For instance, figuring out how dough germs respond in space and how the bread will really be baked.

Now you know why bread isn’t allowed as space food. There’s more than meets the eye, and astronauts prevent any sorts of accidents happening to them or to their surroundings that could jeopardize their lives.