MCB 401 Note – Single Cell Protein and Microbial Products

This flashcard set covers the definition, history, advantages, disadvantages, and substrates involved in the production of Single Cell Protein (SCP).

Single Cell Protein (SCP)

Dead, dry cells of microorganisms, such as yeast, fungi, bacteria and algae, used as a protein source or animal feed supplement.

Yeast (in SCP production)

The microorganism mostly chosen for SCP due to its superior nutritional quality and high protein content.

Protein malnutrition

A condition recognized as being far more severe than other nutrition classes, leading to the development of SCP technology for human and livestock consumption.

Conventional protein limitations

Factors including possible crop failure due to climate, the time needed for fish stock replenishment, and limited land available for farming.

Advantages of SCP production

It is not subject to weather changes, has a much more rapid growth rate than plants or animals, and can turn waste products into food.

Disadvantages of SCP

Its production is capital intensive and contains high levels of RNA, which can lead to health issues if consumed in high amounts.

Health risks of high RNA in SCP

The accumulation of uric acid, which may cause kidney stone formation and gout.

Palm wine and sorghum beers

Traditional beverages that contain high suspensions of bacteria and yeast.

Spirulina

A blue green alga that has been eaten for centuries in Chad.

Methane

The predominant gas in natural gas and the gaseous hydrocarbon most widely studied as a source of SCP.

Natural gas advantage (in SCP)

It is plentiful and cheap, with the greatest advantage being the absence of residual hydrocarbon in the produced SCP compared to liquid hydrocarbons.