LSG Group—Lufthansa Airlines' catering group—recently embarked on a 'Space Food Mission' that takes inspiration from German astronaut Alexander Gerst, who is based at the International Space Station for six months. As such, Lufthansa Airlines is now offering an astronaut-inspired menu option for its business class passengers who are on long flights.
The program pulls inspiration from Gerst's "bonus meal," a nostalgic treat that helps to provide astronauts with a comforting taste of home through familiar flavors. During a trip to space, bonus food plays a strong part in supporting an astronaut's physical and psychological well-being, with the bonus meals making up about 10% of their total provisions.
To share what Gerst finds the most comforting, LSG developed a cheese spaetzle recipe with bacon, chicken ragout and mushrooms.
Astronaut-Inspired In-Flight Menus
Lufthansa Airlines is Now Offering Special Business Class Meals
Trend Themes
1. Space-inspired Menus - The trend of creating space-inspired menus for different occasions, such as airline meals, can be an opportunity for food and hospitality companies to explore unique culinary experiences.
2. Personalized Nostalgic Treats - The trend of creating personalized nostalgic treats that provide comfort can be an opportunity for food companies to explore innovative products and create revenue streams.
3. Bonus Meals for Well-being - The trend of adding bonus meals that increase well-being can be an opportunity for food and healthcare companies to explore unique products and services that cater to individual needs.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can create new revenue streams by offering personalized nostalgic treats or developing unique menus inspired by different themes or occasions.
2. Airline and Hospitality - The airline and hospitality industry can provide unique and memorable experiences by offering space-inspired menus or personalized comfort foods to their customers.
3. Healthcare and Wellness - The healthcare and wellness industry can explore the use of bonus meals as a way to enhance the well-being of their patients or customers by providing personalized comfort foods or specific nutritional needs.