Question

What is single cell protein? Give its source and significance.

Answer 1

• Single cell protein is the large quantities of biomass produced by culturing single type of cells or microorganisms which serve as food specially rich in protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.
  
• Importance :
  

(i) It serves as rich source of protein in human diet.

(ii) It reduces pressure on agricultural production system for the supply of protein requirement.

(iii) It helps in reducing environmental pollution.

• Examples:
  

Spirulina-a cyanobacterium or blue green algae.

Methylophilus methylotrophus-a bacterium.