SCP Full Form

Edible unicellular bacteria are referred to as single-cell proteins (SCP) or microbial proteins. The biomass or protein extract from pure or mixed cultures of algae, yeasts, fungus or bacteria may be used as an ingredient or a substitute for protein-rich foods, and is suitable for human consumption or as animal feeds. Industrial agriculture has a large water footprint, high land use, biodiversity loss, overall environmental degradation, and contributes to climate change by emitting a third of all greenhouse emissions; however, SCP production does not necessarily have any of these significant problems. SCP is widely grown on agricultural waste materials today, and as a result, it inherits industrial agriculture’s ecological and water footprints.

However, autotrophic development can create SCP completely independent of agricultural waste sources. Autotrophic SCP allows various alternative modes of growth, diverse choices for nutrient recycling, and a significantly higher efficiency than crops due to the large diversity of microbial metabolism. According to a study published in 2021, photovoltaic-driven microbial protein synthesis might utilise 10 times less land to produce the same quantity of protein as soybean farming.

Single Cell Protein Sources

The following is a list of the microorganisms used to make Single Cell Protein:

Fungi

• Aspergillus fumigatus
• Aspergillus niger
• Rhizopus cyclopean

Yeast

• Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• Candida tropicalis
• Candida utilis

Algae

• Spirulina (spa)
• Chlorella pyrenoidosa
• Chondrus crispus

Bacteria

• Pseudomonas fluorescens
• Lactobacillus
• Bacillus megaterium

The average compositions of the various microorganisms found in the percent dry weight of Single-cell protein are shown below.

Production of Single-Cell Protein

The following are the steps involved in the production:

1. Selection of suitable strain.
2. Fermentation.
3. Harvesting.
4. Post-harvest treatment.
5. SCP processing for food.

Pure microbial cultures for desired protein products, like any other microbial culture, require a nitrogen source, sources of carbohydrates, and other nutrients like phosphorus to enable optimal culture growth. Throughout the process, rigorous sterile conditions are maintained to prevent contamination. Heat sterilisation or microporous membrane filtration are used to filter the culture media components. The chosen microbe is then inoculated in sterile conditions. Except for algal fermentation, most of the processes are extremely aerobic, hence a steady supply of oxygen is essential. The biomass is retrieved from the medium after multiplication and cleaned further for increased utility and/or storability.

Advantages

• Microorganisms have a rapid rate of multiplication, which means they can create a lot of biomass in a short amount of time
• The amino acid makeup of the bacteria can simply be changed by genetic modification
• As a substrate, a wide range of raw materials, including waste materials, can be used. This also aids in the reduction of pollution levels
• Climate conditions have no effect on production

Disadvantages

• Biomass with a high quantity of nucleic acid is difficult to consume since it can cause gastrointestinal difficulties
• If the digestive system perceives the biomass as a foreign substance, it may cause an allergic reaction
• The presence of large amounts of nucleic acids causes uric acid levels to rise
• If consumed in high quality, it might cause kidney stones and gout in some people
• The occurrence of secondary toxic metabolites that cause hypersensitivity and other skin responses is a possibility
• Because complex machinery is required, the capital cost of production is expensive

Single-Cell Protein Applications

• Gives you quick energy
• It is incredibly beneficial to the eyes and skin
• For undernourished children, this is the best protein fortified diet available
• It’s high in vitamins, amino acids, minerals, crude fibres, and other nutrients

Controlling Obesity is a Therapeutic and Natural Medicine Use

• In diabetic people, it lowers blood sugar levels
• Body weight, cholesterol, and stress reduction
• Prevents cholesterol from accumulating in the body

Used in Cosmetics Products For

• For maintaining healthy hair in cosmetics items
• Biolipstics, herbal face cream, and other herbal beauty products are produced

Poultry uses

It is frequently used for feeding cattle, birds, and fishes since it is a great and convenient source of proteins and other nutrients.

Conclusion

The crude, refined, or edible protein derived from pure microbial cultures, dead, or dried cell biomass is referred to as single-cell protein. They can be used to supplement protein in both humans and animals.

Algae, fungi, yeast, and bacteria, for example, have a high protein concentration in their biomass. These bacteria can be cultured on low-cost substrates such as agricultural waste, such as wood shavings, sawdust, and corn cobs, as well as human and animal waste.

The microorganisms convert the carbon and nitrogen in these resources into high-quality proteins that can be utilised as a supplement in human and animal diet. Single-cell proteins can be utilised as fodder for calves, pigs, fish breeding, and even animal husbandry — poultry and cattle farming.

Single Cell Protein (SCP) is an unusual but realistic answer to the problem of protein deficit that affects the whole human population.