Question

Write a note on single cell protein.

Answer 1

Hint: Proteins are the essential nutrients of the body. They are the building blocks of body tissues and serve as a fuel source.

Complete Answer:
Single cell protein: Single cell proteins are also called microbial proteins.
- These proteins are the edible unicellular organisms.
- The biomass of algae, yeasts, fungi or bacteria used as an ingredient or a substitute for protein rich food and they are suitable for human consumption.
- Today Single cell protein is commonly grown on agricultural waste products or it can be grown entirely independent of agricultural waste products through autotrophic growth.

Process of Single cell protein production:
- Single cell proteins develop when microorganisms ferment waste material including straw, cannery, wood, etc.
- Then single cell proteins are extracted from that waste material.
- These proteins are found in very low concentration.
- Methods by which we can extract single cell protein from the waste material include precipitation, centrifugation, filtration, coagulation, etc.
- Then the single cell protein is dehydrated or acidified for storing purposes and preventing spoilage.

Note: As we all know that the population of World is increasing rapidly day by day. So there is serious risk of food shortage. Single cell protein can be an alternate option in that time as it can be grown in harsh conditions also.