Microorganisms as an alternative source of protein: Mushrooms as single cell proteins (SCP)

Abstract

The Single cell protein is a protein extracted from single celled microorganism, algae, yeasts, or bacteria. It is used as a substitute for protein rich foods, especially in animal feeds or as dietary supplements. As the population increases there is scarcity of protein for world so to fulfill these needs and saving of protein from plant and animal origin the SCP is third option. The term SCP was firstly coined in1968. Single cell protein (SCP) has many applications in food and feed industries. The microorganisms which can be used as SCP include a variety of bacteria, marine microalgae, yeasts and molds. Production of SCP using raw materials as substrate provides an economical source of protein for use in animal feed or human food. SCP always found to meets dietary requirements for protein. Various types of microorganisms have been used to convert raw substrates into biomass. It has been found that SCP production would arise as a promising way to meet the problem of worldwide protein shortage.