FERMENTATION USING n-PARAFFINS (Single Cell Protein SCP)

The term single cell protein is used to represent a group of microbial cells such as algae and yeast that have high protein content. The production of these cells is not generally considered a synthetic process but microbial farming via fermentation in which n-paraffins serve as the substrate. Substantial research efforts were invested in the past two decades to grow algae, fungi, and yeast on different substrates such as n-paraffins, methane, methanol, and even carbon dioxide. The product

SCP is constituted mainly of protein and variable amounts of lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the constituents of SCP limit its usefulness for use as food for human beings but can be used for animal feed. A commercial process using methanol as the substrate was developed by ICI. The product Pruteen is an energy-rich material containing over 70% protein.

One of the problems facing the use of n-paraffins as a substrate for Candida yeast is the presence of residual hydrocarbons in the product. The reliability and economics of producing high-quality n-paraffins is a critical factor in the use of n-paraffins for the production of SCP.