Q.12 What is single cell protein? Give its role in the service of humanity.
Answer
Definition
Single-cell protein (SCP) refers to the protein content extracted from pure or mixed cultures of algae, yeasts, fungi or bacteria.
OR
It is known as single cell protein because the micro-organisms used as producers are unicellular or filamentous individuals.
Production of Single Cell Protein
For the production of single cell proteins, the microorganisms are grown in fermenters. These microorganisms utilize a variety of substrate like agricultural wastes, industrial wastes, natural gas like methane etc.
Production of novel protein
Microorganisms grow very vigorously and produce a high yield of protein. The protein content produced by microorganisms is also known as novel protein or minifood.
Better management of Food Shortage Problem .
Due to overpopulation, the world is facing the problem of food shortage. In future, the conventional agricultural methods might not be able to provide a sufficient supply of food (especially proteins). For a better management of food shortage problems in human and domestic animals), the use of microbes as the producers of single cell proteins has been successful on experimental basis. Work of Prof. Scrimshow
This technique was introduced by Prof. Scrimshow of Massachusetts Institute of technology. Scientist and food technologists believe that single cell proteins will substitute the other protein richi foods in human and animal feeds.
Significance of single cell protein
(a) High yield of SCP
All scientists recognize the significance.of the production of single-cell proteins. The micro organisms grow very vigorously and produce a high yield. It has been calculated that 50 kilogram of yeast produces about 250 tons of proteins within 24 hours.
Algae grown in ponds produce 20 tons (dry weight) of protein per acre/year. This yield of protein is 10-15 times higher than soybeans and 20-50 times higher than corn..
When single cell proteins are produced by using yeasts, the products also contain high vitamin content.
(b) Raw Material in the Production of Single cell Proteins
In the production of single cell proteins, industrial wastes are used as raw materials for micro organisms. It helps in controlling pollution.
(c) Use of SCP in Future
The use of single cell proteins has good prospects in future because they contain all essential amino acids. Moreover the production of single-cell proteins is independent of seasonal variations.
(d) Limited land Area Required
SCP is gaining popularity day by day because it requires limited land area for production.
