Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2025
Techniques for the Evolution of Robust Pentose-fermenting Yeast for Bioconversion of Lignocellulose to Ethanol
Published on: October 24, 2016
Fueling the protein transition: Can waste-derived ethanol enable efficient and high-quality microbial protein
L Van Peteghem1, S Matassa2, M Sakarika1
1Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Center for Advanced Process Technology for Urban Resource Recovery (CAPTURE), Frieda Saeysstraat 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Abstract:
Meeting the protein needs of a growing population will require significant resources. In this context, microbial protein (MP) offers a nutritious and versatile protein source from recovered resources. This meta-analysis of over 100 studies examines the efficiency and nutritional quality of MP production using ethanol. Ethanol, a feedstock derived from CO2 and biological waste, is used by various microorganisms, and has an established role in the food sector. Results show that ethanol-based MP production is technically feasible for food applications, reaching biomass concentrations of 14-230 g/L and productivities of 11-13 g/L/h. The protein content of MP correlates with productivity, and the nutritional quality of ethanol-grown MP matches common sources like pork and tofu. Lastly, operational choices affect the techno-economic feasibility of using waste-derived ethanol and other recovered resources. This meta-analysis highlights the potential of ethanol-grown MP, though further research is needed to close existing knowledge gaps.
