Question

Give two examples of fungi used in SCP production.

Answer 1

Hint: One of the fungi used in the SCP production is eaten as a grilled mushroom and the other one is often used in the making of bread, and wine-like beverages.

Complete answer:
Edible unicellular microorganisms are referred to as single-cell proteins (SCP) or microbial proteins. The biomass or protein extract of algae, yeasts, fungi, or bacteria from pure or mixed cultures may be used as an ingredient or a substitute for protein-rich foods and is found to be suitable for consumption by humans and animals. Agaricus campestris and Saccharomyces cerevisiae are the two fungi extensively used for SCP production.
Agaricus campestris is a commonly consumed gilled mushroom that is commonly consumed and is closely related to the cultivated species of Agaricus bisporus (button mushroom). It is commonly known as field mushroom or meadow mushroom in North America.
The Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a yeast species. Since ancient times it has been instrumental in winemaking, baking, and brewing.

Additional Information: Microorganisms such as algae, fungi, yeast, and bacteria have very high amounts of protein in their biomass. These microbes can be grown using cheap substrates such as agricultural waste such as shavings of wood, sawdust, cobs of corn, etc., and also of human and animal waste. The microorganisms use the carbon and nitrogen found in these materials to transform them into high-quality proteins that can be used in both human and animal feed as a supplement. The single-cell proteins can easily be used as a fodder to fatten cows, pigs, in breeding fish, and also in Animal Husbandry – Poultry and Cattle Farming. Single Cell Protein ( SCP) provides a feasible solution to this protein deficiency affecting all of humanity.
SCP Production takes place in the following steps:
-Selection of the right strain.
-Fermentation.
-Harvesting the products.
-Treatment of the products post-harvest
-Manufacturing of SCP Food.
Advantages
-Microorganisms have a high rate of multiplication which means they can generate a large quantity of biomass in a comparatively shorter time.
-Genetic modification of the microbes is easy and the desired change in the composition of the amino acids can be obtained.
-A wide range of raw materials can be used as a substratum including waste materials.
Disadvantages
-High levels of nucleic acid in biomass render consumption difficult, as this may contribute to gastrointestinal problems.
-If the digestive system recognizes it as a foreign object, the biomass will cause an allergic reaction.
The presence of high content of nucleic acids contributes to elevated uric acid levels.
-In certain cases, if eaten in high quantities, kidney stone, and gout develops.
-Production capital costs are high, as sophisticated machinery is required.

Note: The SCP possesses various advantages apart from obtaining the nutrients. It helps in Controlling obesity, Lowers blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, Reduces body weight, cholesterol, stress and finally, it prevents the accumulation of cholesterol in the body.