INTEGRATING CIRCULAR ECONOMY

The production and utilization of single-cell protein (SCP) could provide an alternative source of protein for the animal industry. The SCP refers to wet algal biomass which has a rich nutritional profile containing valuable amino acids, fatiy acids, nucleic acids, minerals and several antioxidants, vitamins.

Microalgae are one such source that stands out for their 'remarkable protein content' and can serve as an environment-friendly alternative to animal-derived proteins. By leveraging the renewable resources derived from the nutrient-rich fruit & vegetable spent streams within the food and agricultural sector, it can be concluded that there is great potential to enhance microalgae production from a standpoint of ocioeconomic and environmental sustainability. It can significantly advance the circular bio-economy by harnessing this carbon resource conversion.
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The aquaculture industry's progress in sustainability relies on diversifying the types of ingredients it uses in its feeding system. With increasing focus on green energy, novel inputs like microalgae havemassive potential to deliver at scale with very low carbon intensity and limited land use. Being a primary component of the aquatic food chain, its use for the growth of zooplankton in hatcheries and the rejuvenation of grow-out ponds is immense.