A pound of prevention

"A Pound of Prevention" by G. C. Edmondson is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century, specifically around the 1950s. The story delves into themes of space travel, human adaptability, and the unforeseen consequences of sterilization practices in a zero-gravity environment. It centers on a group of astronauts preparing for a mission to Mars while grappling with the challenges of their situation. The narrative follows General Carnhouser and three young astronauts—Hagstrom, van den Burg, and Aréchaga—as they embark on their journey to Mars. As the mission progresses, the crew finds themselves struggling not only with the physical demands of space but also with unexpected health issues stemming from their food. The rations selected for the mission are irradiated and devoid of living bacteria, leading to severe digestive problems, particularly for two of the crew members. Aréchaga, who remains unaffected, realizes that the lack of beneficial bacteria has left his comrades unable to digest even the most nutrient-rich foods. Taking matters into his own hands, he reinfects himself with a traditional chili sauce, ultimately saving his crewmates by restoring their gut flora. The story highlights both the importance of preventive measures and the absurdities that can arise in the pursuit of cleanliness in an environment as harsh as space.