single cell protein

single cell protein (SCP)

CELLS of MICROORGANISMS grown primarily for use as a source of protein for animal or human food. Single cell protein may be used directly as a food, for example PRUTEEN or QUORN, or as a food supplement, for example yeast extract. Microorganisms have certain properties that make them particularly suitable for use as a single cell protein: they grow rapidly, use a wide range of substrates including inexpensive agricultural and industrial wastes, and produce large amounts of BIOMASS of high protein content. Furthermore production is not dependent on seasonal or climatic conditions and production plants occupy limited space.