Prof Maikano advocates Single-Cell Proteins for sustainable feed production in Nigeria
Professor of Animal Science at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) Prof Maikano Ari has sued for the adoption and use of Single Cell-Proteins (SCP) for sustainable and efficient feed production in Nigeria.
He made the advocacy on Wednesday while presenting the University’s 38th Inaugural lecture series in a topic : Single Cell Protein , Unlocking Opportunities to Address Monogastric Feed Supply Challenges.
Prof Ari is also the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies in NSUK added that Single-Cell Proteins is an innovative solution with immense potential that will help solve the challenge of Monogastric feed supply that affects the agricultural sector in the country.
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He described SCP as a sustainable protein source that is derived from microorganisms like bacteria, yeast, fungi, and algae and can be used as a food source.
“They are a sustainable and efficient protein source that can be produced using minimal resources,” he said
According to him SCP can be produced through controlled cultivation processes in bioreactors or fermentation tanks where the microorganisms multiply and produce biomass rich in proteins, carbohydrates and other nutrients.
Ari said due to the characteristics of SCP, it can serve as a nutritious and sustainable feed source for livestock and can replace traditional protein sources like soya beans meal or fishmeal thereby reducing the environmental impact of animal agriculture.
He pointed out that without the innovative SCP, implications of feed scarcity on the agricultural sector includes reduced livestock production, increased production costs, decline in income and livelihoods, food insecurity and increased reliance on imports.
“Harnessing the opportunities of SCP in full measure by building a holistic approach to maximally utilize SCP provides a unique fulcrum for utilizing and improving both conventional and alternative feed resources,” he said
He pointed out that SCP production contributes to a more tailored economy as it can utilize waste materials or non-food resources and can be tailored to meet specific nutritional requirements for different animals thereby improving their health and productivity.
“SCP has potential applications in producing biofuels and bioplastics, further contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
“SCP also offers a promising solution to the challenges of sustainable food production and environmental sustainability. It’s versatility and sustainability make it a valuable resource for meeting the increasing demand for protein in a more environmentally friendly and efficient way,” he added
Earlier , Prof. Suleiman Bala-Mohammed, Vice Chancellor, NSUK lauded the Inaugural lecturer for the topic which he said is very central to the question of food security in Nigeria hence the importance of the lecturer in issuing policies suggestions for national development.
“I am convinced that we will have very good intellectual discourse and leave here with a lot of information on this matter. I am also sure there will be policy suggestions that help in food security in Nigeria,” he said.
