TOKYO, Oct. 10 ― Astronauts at the International Space Station (ISS) have successfully received a rocket carrying the Konotori-7 cargo, which contains Japanese-grown fresh fruits and vegetables.
A broadcast of the rocket launch can be viewed on YouTube.
All foods that have been sent to the ISS are certified by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) as Japanese space food for crew members at the ISS.
The JAXA started its Japanese space food certification program, aiming to improve food situation for astronauts in space.
In order to get certified, a product must meet rigorous standards such as strict hygiene management and long-term storage without refrigeration.
Some farmers see requirements for space food products with long preservation periods could also bring more opportunities for new markets such as emergency food products.