The micro-organisms in these rumens are able to convert the treated residue into protein. The process has been fairly stable through the ages. The composition of SCPs compares favourably with the substrates on which they are grown, as shown in Table 6. Digestibility is lower for algae, and the data are inconclusive.
Further evaluation is required.
It is often assumed that small-scale SCP production can be made operational relatively easily. This is a serious under-estimation of the problems involved. Positive results are more likely to be achieved if experienced industrial fermentation research groups participate. In order to use SCP products successfully, a thorough nutritional and toxicological evaluation is necessary. Nutrient requirements and digestion in animals are species-specific and so is absorption of nutrients after digestion.