Abstract

MUSHROOMS AS SINGLE-CELL PROTEIN: A CIRCULAR ECONOMY APPROACH TO ADDRESSING GLOBAL PROTEIN DEMANDS

*Dr. Jyothi Kanchan A. S. and Dr. Sandhya P.

ABSTRACT

The cultivation of mushrooms as a single-cell protein (SCP) using agricultural waste has garnered considerable attention as a potential solution to meet global protein demands and address food security challenges. SCP production plays a crucial role in waste management and environmental restoration. This study delves into the effectiveness of cultivating Pleurotus mushrooms, specifically Pleurotus sajor-caju, on agricultural residues like paddy straw and sugarcane baggasse. The research seeks to assess protein yields, economic feasibility, and the potential impact of mushroom cultivation on human health and well-being. The data indicates that growing mushrooms as SCP from agricultural waste proves to be a cost-efficient approach for obtaining abundant protein yields with minimal financial input. By optimizing cultivation conditions and utilizing various agricultural by-products, a significant enhancement in protein production and substantial economic advantages can be achieved. The study emphasizes the necessity for further exploration of different agricultural by-products and improvement of cultivation techniques to boost SCP production efficiency and address food security issues in India. The cultivation of mushrooms and their derivatives is anticipated to have a substantial influence on human health and well-being in the 21st century, mirroring a global shift similar to a Non-green Revolution. The study underscores the importance of acknowledging and embracing the potential of mushroom cultivation as a sustainable and effective method for generating SCP or protein-rich food sources.

Keywords: Mushroom, SCP, Agricultural wastes, Pleurotus sajor -caju, Sugarcane Baggasse, Paddy straw.