Question

Which organism is used as a major source to obtain the single cell protein?
A) Bacteria
B) Yeast
C) Filamentous fungi
D) None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Single Cell Protein is the cell of microorganisms that are rich in protein. It is used as a protein supplement in animal feed and human nutrition.

Complete answer:
On a large scale, the microbes are grown as a source of protein. The common sources of SCP are yeast, algae and some bacteria. These microbes are rich in protein. Microbes like Spirulina can be easily grown on a waste substance like molasses, animal manure, sewage, and wastewater from potato processing plants to produce large quantities and serve food rich in protein, carbohydrate and vitamins. The use of microbes is growing on the waste materials, decreasing the environmental pollution. The SCP is rich in protein and low in fat.
Among the various sources of SCP, the best industrially explored is bacteria due to its high growth rate and high protein content. It has been calculated that a 250 kg cow produced 200 g of protein per day. However, bacteria like Methylophilus methylotrophus can produce 25 tonnes of protein from 250 g of bacteria in the same period.

Therefore the correct answer is option (A) that is Bacteria.

Note:
The bacteria are growing in the fermenters and depending upon the type of species the carbon source and other growth substrate were provided.
Algae uses photosynthesis, therefore carbon dioxide and the sunlight are the main substrates for growth. To provide sunlight and carbon dioxide the algae can be grown outdoors or in photobioreactors. Hence microalgae preferred less for SCP production.