What Is There To Eat In Antarctica?

What Is There To Eat In Antarctica?


February 29, 2024 | Marlon Wright

What Is There To Eat In Antarctica?


Antarctica is the most southern continent on Earth. It's famous for its beautiful icy scenery, varied wildlife, and harsh weather conditions. Despite not having a lot of cuisine options, creative solutions for obtaining and cooking food have been developed by Antarctic researchers and visitors. It's not glamorous, but you'll definitely get a unique foodie experience in this isolated area.

1709797171923sandwich | Flickr

Slim pickings

Pre-packaged and preserved foods are the main food source in Antarctica since fresh produce is scarce. It may not seem glamorous, but most visitors are surprised at the quality and taste of such foods. Supplies such as canned goods, frozen meats, dried fruits, vegetables, and grains are shipped from other countries to research stations to provide essential nutrients in the harsh climate.

If you seek a meal that doesn't come from a can, your best bet is to visit a research institute. Research institutes also often hire chefs with specific training who work to produce tasty and nutritious meals using whatever ingredients are available. These chefs employ creative techniques to transform basic ingredients into delectable dishes, elevating the spirits of those who are permanently stationed in Antarctica.

Screen Shot 2024-03-07 At 2.40.59 AmThe U.S. National Archives

Advertisement

Fresh is rare

A few research stations have started growing fresh fruit indoors with hydroponic gardens, which replace dirt with nutrient-rich water. However, the extreme conditions in Antarctica limit their efforts. Still, what they can grow does have comparable freshness to the fruit grown in more favorable locations.

The abundance of fish in Antarctica's neighboring waters serves as another food source. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, fish and krill are vital components of the Antarctic diet. Scientists can harvest little crustaceans called krill using specialized equipment, and they can fish on ice or use nets to catch fish. These fresh catches take the place of canned and preserved items, which is often a nice change.

1709797068517Pedro Szekely

Advertisement

Field parties

In addition, a few daring tourists in Antarctica engage in the custom of "field parties," where they explore the wild to search for edible plants and hunt seals or penguins. 

These activities are closely monitored to reduce harm to the environment and wildlife, but they provide a special chance to taste authentic Antarctic cuisine.


READ MORE

raclette cheese
May 31, 2024 | Samantha Henman

The 50 Best Foods In The World, Ranked

Real food lovers will go to great lengths to try the best different countries have to offer—and we’ve ranked the best dishes out there in all four corners of the world.
June 30, 2025 | Peter Kinney

Making Unforgettable Guacamole: Perfection Is Within Reach

Many people can whip up a half-decent guacamole, but guacamole perfection is harder to attain. We look at the keys to perfect guacamole.
Kamayan Internal
April 29, 2024 | Eul Basa

Kamayan: The Ultimate Filipino Finger Food Feast

When it comes to eating with your hands, nothing compares to the satisfaction of Kamayan.
Antarcticafood Internal
February 29, 2024 | Marlon Wright

What Is There To Eat In Antarctica?

Despite not having a lot of cuisine options, creative solutions for obtaining and cooking food have been developed by Antarctic researchers and visitors.
February 10, 2025 | Allison Robertson

20 Foods to Buy Before a Food Shortage

Uncover 20 foods to buy before a food shortage. From canned goods and smoked meats to herbs and spices, these kitchen staples are important to have when food is scarce.
Cleaned up illustration of Great Mill Disaster
April 29, 2024 | Sarah Ng

8 Of The Worst Food Disasters In History

Food sustains us, but in these horrifying cases, food was at the center of some of history's worst disasters.