Single Cell Protein

Commonly referred to as SCP, these products are dried cells of micro¬organisms such as algae,
actinomycetes, bacteria, yeasts, molds and higher fungi which are grown in large fermentors.

The product at present is largely used as animal feed. One of the earliest known use of SCP as a natural
source of food comes from Africa: Spirulina, a blue-green alga growing in the lake Chad region of Africa
develops into a mat which is scooped out periodically by the natives and dried in sun to be eaten as
food.
During the world war, bakers yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and Torula yeast (Candida utilis) were
grown on a large scale using molasses and sulphite waste liquor from pulp and paper industry as media
to produce a protein supplement for animals and human beings.

There have been several candidates for SCP production from time to time and the substrate used for the
cultivation of these microorganisms are also variable. The most advanced process for SCP production on
a methanol substrate was developed by the then Imperial Chemical Industries of U.K. by growing
Methylophilus (Pseudomonas) methylotrophus in large fermentors.
There are several limitations in the use of SCP for human consumption and they are due to (1) high
nucleic acid contents of many microorganisms that would result in kidney stone formation or gout (2)
poor digestibility, gastrointestinal problems and skin reactions and (3) the possible presence of toxic or
carcinogenic compounds from residues of substrates.

However, dried food-grade yeasts and their autolysates have been used for many years. Dried mycelia
of mushrooms, by virtue of their pleasant flavour can be used in soups, sauces or gravy formulations.
The high capital costs and the need for sterility controls render SCP expensive in developing countries
where food shortages are common. As animal feed, SCP grown on agricultural residues should certainly
find a place in the future economy of developing nations. It is however noteworthy that Dabur in India is
manufacturing and selling spirulinafor human consumption.