Miso Paste Becomes The ‘First Food Ever’ To Be Fermented In Space

The International Space Station (ISS) has successfully completed an experiment in fermenting miso paste in outer space, believed to be the first deliberate food fermentation conducted in orbit. This traditional Japanese recipe made from fermented soya beans was created on the ISS in an attempt to add flavor to the typically bland food eaten by astronauts on space missions.

The space-made miso paste was found to be more pungent with nutty and roasted aromas, and displayed a faster fermentation process compared to the control samples on Earth. Miso paste is naturally plant-based and vegan-friendly, made from fermented soybeans, salt, and kōji fungus. High in protein, fiber, and beneficial gut bacteria, miso also provides nutrients such as copper, zinc, and vitamin K, making it a healthy addition to the astronauts' diet in space.