VR

Co-lead Dr Julia Low said the team found the VR simulation offered an immersive experience of a confined environment, evoking more intense perceptions of all the food aromas tested, except lemongrass, than the microgravity posture.

"This difference in profile may explain why lemongrass seemed less intense in the VR setting compared to the microgravity posture."

"This research opens possibilities for personalised meal plans for astronauts and individuals living alone on Earth, showcasing VR's potential to explore variations in eating when stressed," she said.

In the VR setting, participants reporting positive emotions perceived stronger aromas.

Newman said future studies would combine the microgravity posture with the VR experience for participants, to better simulate the astronaut experience and design food plans for longer missions, including trips to Mars.