Advantages of Single Cell Protein

• Microorganisms have a high rate of multiplication, which means a large quantity of biomass can be produced in a comparatively shorter duration.
• The microbes can be easily genetically modified to vary the amino acid composition.
• A broad variety of raw materials, including waste materials, can be used as a substrate. This also helps in decreasing the number of pollutants.
• Production is independent of climatic conditions.

Disadvantages of Single Cell Protein

• High level of nucleic acid in biomass makes it difficult for consumption as it may lead to gastrointestinal problems.
• The biomass may trigger an allergic reaction if the digestive system recognizes it as a foreign product.
• The presence of nucleic acids in high content leads to elevated levels of uric acid.
• In certain cases, the development of kidney stone and gout if consumed in high quality.
• Possibility of the presence of secondary toxic metabolites which results in Hypersensitivity and other skin reactions.
• The capital cost of production is high as sophisticated machinery is required.

Production of Single Cell Protein

The production is carried out in the following steps:

• Selection of suitable strain.
• Fermentation.
• Harvesting.
• Post-harvest treatment.
• SCP processing for food.

Like any other microbial culture, production of pure microbial cultures for desired protein products requires a  nitrogen source, sources of carbohydrates and other nutrients like phosphorus to support optimal growth of the culture. Contamination is prevented by maintaining strict sterile conditions throughout the process. The components of the culture media are either heat sterilized or filtered through microporous membranes. The selected microorganism is then inoculated in pure conditions. Most of the processes are highly aerobic, except algal fermentation; hence a good supply of oxygen is an indispensable requirement. After the multiplication of the biomass, it is recovered from the medium and purified further for enhanced usefulness and or storability.

Applications of Single Cell Protein

• Provides instant energy.
• It is extremely good for healthy eyes and skin.
• Provides the best protein supplemented food for undernourished children.
• Serves as a good source of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, crude fibres, etc.