A Review on the Importance of Producing Single-Cell Protein (SCP) from Agricultural By-products and Waste

The production of Single-Cell Protein (SCP) from agricultural by-products and waste has emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for addressing global protein demand in human and animal nutrition. Agricultural residues such as stalks, fruit peels, and seed remnants serve as low-cost substrates for microbial fermentation, facilitating SCP synthesis. Various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and algae, are utilized for their ability to produce high-quality protein with balanced amino acid profiles, potentially replacing traditional plant- and animal-derived proteins. This review explores SCP production processes, microbial sources, and optimal processing techniques, emphasizing their role in sustainable protein supply and environmental impact mitigation. The selection of appropriate microorganisms and fermentation methods significantly influences SCP yield and nutritional composition. SCP production from renewable biomass not only addresses food security challenges but also reduces agricultural waste and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting circular bioeconomy initiatives. Furthermore, SCP application extends beyond nutrition to industrial sectors such as food processing, bio-based materials, and wastewater treatment. Despite its advantages, SCP production faces challenges such as high nucleic acid content, potential microbial toxins, and process scalability. Continued advancements in bioprocess optimization, metabolic engineering, and strain selection are crucial for enhancing SCP efficiency and market viability. This review highlights SCP’s potential as a transformative protein source, offering an environmentally responsible and economically viable alternative to conventional protein production systems.