Question

A person was found to be allergic to pulses but he was advised to consume protein in his diet. Which of the following item will supply the required amount of protein to the person?

• A. Lentil
• B. Solanum tuberosum
• C. Black gram
• D. Methylophilus methylotrophus

Answer 1

The correct option is D Methylophilus methylotrophus

Pulses such as lentils and black gram are rich source of plant proteins and good for growth and development of the body. But if the person is allergic to pulses then he/she cannot consume pulses or add them to their regular diet. So he/she need an alternate source of protein. Hence option a and c are incorrect.

Single Cell Protein (SCP) can be an alternative option to the person, who requires protein in his/her diet. SCP refers to the edible protein extracted from pure microbial cultures, dead, or dried cell biomass. It can be used as an alternative protein source or supplement for both humans or animals.

Microorganisms such algae, fungi, yeast, and bacteria can be used as SCP.

Examples include:
i) Algae: Spirulina, Chlorella.
ii) Fungi: Candida, Saccharomyces
iii) Bacteria: Methylophilus methylotrophus

Hence, the person allergic to pulses can easily consume SCP to fulfill his/her dietary requirement of proteins. Methylophilus methylotrophus is rich in protiens. So option d is correct.

Solanum tuberosum is the biological name of potato and is a rich source of carbohydrates. But it is low in protein content. Yam is rich in proteins. Hence option b is incorrect.