📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
On July 7, as the world celebrated World Chocolate Day, the European Space Agency (ESA) shared a delightful series of images showcasing astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) indulging in a variety of chocolate treats. The astronauts were seen enjoying a range of desserts, including chocolate crepes made with flour tortillas, silky chocolate mousse as part of a scientific experiment, and homemade chocolate-covered biscuit houses, adding a touch of home in space. The series of posts shared by ESA not only highlighted the astronauts’ sweet treats but also captured the essence of celebrating the special day aboard the ISS.
World Chocolate Day traces its roots back to 2009 when the inaugural International Chocolate Day was celebrated, commemorating the opening of the first chocolate bar in Europe in 1550. Since then, people worldwide have embraced this delicious holiday with enthusiasm. Researchers estimate that the consumption of chocolate dates back over 2,000 years, with its origins in Mesoamerica, particularly among the Aztec people who considered cocoa seeds as the ‘food of the Gods’.
In another interesting development, ESA astronaut Andreas Mogensen is gearing up to bring a unique kind of chocolate to the ISS during his mission. Teaming up with Danish chef Thorsten Schmidt, Andreas will be introducing chocolate bars crafted with over 70 natural ingredients, including kale, seaweed, lactic acid bacteria, and magnesium. These SPACECRAFTED chocolate bars not only promise an innovative culinary experience in space but also aim to provide essential nutritional benefits to boost energy levels and support overall well-being. Approved by the European Food Safety Authority, these bars are designed to combat tiredness, boost the immune system, and support the nervous system, offering a holistic approach to astronaut nutrition.
With such fascinating developments in the realm of space food and celebrations of World Chocolate Day, the connection between gastronomy and exploration takes on a whole new dimension. As we marvel at the ingenuity of astronauts enjoying chocolate delicacies in orbit and the innovative creations being prepared for space missions, we are reminded of the endless possibilities that technology and human ingenuity can unlock even in the vast expanse of outer space. The blend of science, culture, and culinary artistry in space exploration showcases a delightful fusion of earthly pleasures and cosmic adventures, bridging the gap between our terrestrial traditions and celestial aspirations.
