Single cell protein is a term coined in the 1960s to describe microbial biomass produced through fermentation and used as a protein source, especially for livestock. Advancements in biotechnology have helped develop SCP using various microorganisms like yeast, bacteria, and algae. Sources of SCP include bacteria like Cellulomas and Alcaligenes as well as yeasts, actinomycetes, fungi and algae like Spirulina. SCP is composed of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, ash, water and minerals. It contains 50-55% protein from yeast and fungi with a good balance of amino acids but less methionine and cysteine. SCP also has high levels of

1. SINGLE CELL PROTEIN
• Single Cell Protein is term coined in 1960’s to embrace the
microbial biomass products which are produced by
fermentation.
“protein that consists of processed microorganisms (as yeasts or
bacteria) grown in culture and that is used as a source of food
esp. for livestock”.
• Advance in Biotechnology techniques has participated in the
development of SCP technology and helped in improving its
quality and use of different organisms along with yeast for the
production of SCP

2. Sources
• Bacteria :Cellulomas and Alcaligenes
-Potential phototrophic bacterial trains
-methanotrophic
• Yeast :Candida, Hansenula, Pitchia, Torulopsis and
Saccharomyces
- actinomycetes and filamentous fungi
• Alga :Spirulina,Chlorella and Senedessmus

3. Nutritional Benefits of Single Cell Protein
• Single Cell Protein is basically composed of proteins, fats,
carbohydrates, ash ingredients, water and other elements
such as potassium and phosphorus.
• Single Cell Protein from yeast and fungi has up to 50-55%
protein
• It contains more lysine less amount of methionine and
cysteine
• It also has good balance of amino acids and it has high B-
complex vitamins