A Pound of Prevention

A Pound of Prevention is a science fiction novella by G. C. Edmondson, written in the 1950s. The story follows General Carnhouser and three astronauts as they prepare for a mission to Mars, facing unexpected health issues due to their sterilized food rations. The narrative explores themes of human adaptability and the consequences of extreme cleanliness in space, culminating in a solution that highlights the importance of beneficial bacteria for digestion. This work reflects the challenges of space travel and the absurdities that can arise in such an environment.