Balancing Planetary Health and Protein Demand: Sustainable Approach to Global Protein Production

Background: Single cell proteins (SCPs) have significantly high protein content, contain low fat and are rich in various vitamins. They are produced from microbial fermentation of low-cost raw materials, some of which are considered as waste resources. SCP production has a reduced environmental footprint compared to con-ventional methods of producing protein. It also provides a way of converting waste products, including those containing hemicellulose into useful biomass. Objective: This review is focused on the current sustainability problem associated with the present food sys-tem alongside the global demand for protein which places a stress on it. The role of SCPs, a sustainable source of protein able to meet human nutritional needs is also considered. Method: We searched databases for primary and secondary research published on SCPs, Anthropocene, and Sustainability. Relevant articles were thereafter. Results: The food system is in the intersection of several overarching Sustainable Development Goals, and hence influences almost all planetary health boundaries. Contrary to processes associated with obtaining protein-rich foods from various animals, SCPs production is eco-friendly, offers an avenue for waste transformation, and does not impact the biogeochemical flow negatively. Nutritional contents of SCPs are good building blocks for the human immune system. Conclusion: Current challenges associated with SCPs mass production and consumption, especially eth-ic-related and downstream processing and purification technology and technical know-how can be overcome through an interdisciplinary research approach. The role of science communication in portraying SCPs as a safe microbial source of protein before the non-scientific communities cannot be overemphasized.