On July 16 a study got conducted that revealed about food taste and smell different in space. It was revealed during the study that the astronauts struggle to consume the food and get nutrients from it.
Experience of food in space differs significantly from what we’re accustomed to on Earth. A experiment got carried out by using virtual reality (VR) that contributed in this finding and revealed the reason behind this.
The finding got published in the International Journal of Food Science and Technology. The difference in taste and smell of food in space is attributed to the effect of microgravity, which causes bodily fluids to shift towards the head, similar to the sensation of a congested nose. This shift impacts astronauts' ability to perceive flavors and aromas. However, these symptoms usually decrease after a few weeks.
The spacecraft setting has a great influence on how humans pervieve the food in space. Also the food in space is very limted the same meal can evoke different opinions on Earth compared to in Space due to the blocked nose sensation felt by the astronauts.
Eating involves several factors that influence the perception of food such as taste, smell, texture, color, and touch. If any of these senses is dulled, our enjoyment of food changes. In space, the unfamiliar environment disrupts this multi-sensory experience.
Stress, confinement, and the limited variety of food are also contributing factor to the issue. Many astronauts report that the enjoyment of eating decreases in space. Thus, while gravity and physiological changes play a role, the overall environment and sensory interactions are also significant factors.
Scientists have made a breakthrough that will aid in the creation of a customized menu for astronauts on future space missions. In general, the whole situation and the interaction between the senses are important in addition to gravity and physiological changes.
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