SINGLE CELL PROTEIN-PRODUCTION BY ASPERGILLUS-NIGER AND ITS EVALUATION

An efficient cellulolytic mold, Aspergillus niger AS-101 was used to produce single cell protein from alkali-treated corn cobs. Microbial biomass obtained after 6 days of fermentation was evaluated for its various quality components. Single cell protein product contained 30.4% crude protein and had an essential amino acid profile featuring a high lysine content and appreciable amounts of methionine and tryptophane. Product contained 12.9% fat which was comprised of all essential fatty acids. Product has 77% of in vitro dry matter digestibility, hence can be used to supplement the feed components of ruminents and other monogastric animals.