Single cell protein: a promising dietary substitute.

Promises and limitations in exploitation of microorganisms for single cell protein (SCP) production have been reviewed. Various aspects discussed include global protein problem, microbes as potential sources of food and feed with its advantages and disadvantages, salient features in selection of microorganisms for SCP production, production of SCP from petroleum based hydrocarbons, renewable raw materials like agricultural and forestry residues, industrial by-products and wastes, nutritional and safety evaluation of SCP, ways of improving SCP production, economics of SCP production and the present status of SCP in India.