Review of Single Cell Proteins (SCPs), the Producing Microorganisms, and Their Benefits and Applications

With the rapid increase in the world's population, many developing countries face malnutrition issues (famine, food insecurity, etc.). The shortage of protein sources is becoming a serious problem for both human and animal nutrition. Therefore, the demand for protein sources has increased. In this context, Single Cell Proteins (SCPs) produced by microorganisms can be utilized as an alternative and unconventional source. Generally, important sources for SCP production include yeasts, bacteria, algae, and filamentous fungi. The most important are Saccharomyces, Torulopsis, Candida, Didymium, and others. Identifying the most active organisms showed that Candida tropicalis and Yarrowia lipolytica are the most efficient yeasts with the potential to produce SCP. SCP can be used directly or indirectly in human nutrition. However, for direct human consumption, extensive research regarding human health and the type of microorganism used must be conducted to ensure it is not harmful before being utilized directly in human nutrition. Besides human nutrition, SCP can also be used in the diet of livestock and poultry. Recently, due to the identification of new and less expensive production processes, interest in SCP has been renewed, mainly because SCP production for traditional protein products in animal feed has significant environmental potential. This review discusses SCP production by selecting the best conditions for the microorganisms used (temperature, pH, stirring time, substrate) and its application as food sources in human nutrition, nutritional supplements for animals and plants, and as a fishmeal substitute in aquaculture. Notably, microbial protein is advantageous over fishmeal because it is cost-effective, rich in protein, acts as a probiotic, and enhances fish resistance, immune system, growth, survival, and balances the digestive system. Additionally, using methods like chromatography and optimizing it yields purer molecules and more precise research. Purified molecules can then be used in various industries, including medicine. Single Cell Proteins (SCPs) possess highly attractive features as nutritional supplements for animals and plants and can be produced year-round. This product can be generated from a variety of free microorganisms. Therefore, it can easily replace traditional protein sources in human and animal diets without any negative impact!

کلیدواژه ها:

Single cell proteins ، human ، animal feed ، plant supplements ، aquatic supplements ، Saccharomyces ، Candida ، probiotics ، immune system enhancement ، growth and survival increase ، balancing the digestive system