Single cell protein production by Candida robusta isolated from sugar cane (Saccharum sp.) for animal feed

Abstract

The protein obtained from the microorganisms is not only cheap but can be used as additive to provide a balanced nutrition for many animals feeding. The aim of this work was the single cell protein (SCP) production by Candida robusta URM5293 using sugarcane bagasse as substrate. The yeast C. robusta URM5293 was isolated from root sugarcane and was identified based on morphological and biochemical characteristics. Biomass production was done into Erlenmayers flasks (250 mL) containing culture medium supplemented of sugarcane bagasse hydrolyzate. Fermentations were carried varying culture conditions through the study of four different variables: temperature (25, 30, and 35°C), agitation intensity (110, 140 or 170 rpm), pH (6.0, 7.0, and 8.0) and production time (72, 96, and 120h), according to a 24-1 fractional factorial design. Results demonstrated that this yeast was able to ensure the highest level of biomass (141 g/L) when cultivated at 25°C, pH 6.0, 170 rpm of agitation intensity after 72h of cultivation using sugarcane bagasse. The present results demonstrate the potential of sugarcane bagasse hemicellulosic hydrolyzate as a substrate for the production of microbial protein by C. robusta URM5293.