Biotechnology
Biotechnology is the way in which man uses other organisms to make useful products. Yeast has been used for centuries to make beer, wine and bread. Moulds have been employed in cheese making, and bacteria in yogurt making.
Single- Cell Protein (SCP)
Microorganisms are single cell organisms which can be cultured to rapidly produce foodstuffs rich in protein, minerals and vitamins. Microorganisms are grown in large fermenters where nutrient, pH and temperature are constantly monitored and controlled.
The products are: 1. Cells 2. Substances produced by cells.
3. Substances the cells make by fermenting the nutrient solution.
Once these products have been ‘ harvested’ they are processed for marketing.
Mycoprotein (SCP)
Fusarium graminearum is a mould which is about 50% protein, high in fibre but low in fat and cholesterol-free, called mycoprotein (myco-:fungus), it is seen as a healthy substitute for meat. Fusarium is cultured in fermenters and marketed under t brand name ‘Quorn’.

Enzymes
Enzymes are highly important in industry and medicine. Microorganisms are cultured in fermenters, and they secrete enzymes which are separated from the culture medium and processed to be used in powdered or liquid form. Enzyme production is a rapidly growing industry. They are used in the following areas:-
Food and agriculture
Chemical industry
Pharmaceutical industry
Medicine
Analytical Sciences

Enzyme Production
Microorganisms are used to produce enzymes and other products for a number of reasons:- 1. They are easy to grow in large fermenters where output can be controlled to meet demand. 2. They can be sustained on a wide range of readily available and easily prepared nutrients 3. They can be genetically manipulated ( genetic engineering) to produce enzymes with enhanced qualities. Genetically engineered microorganisms can also