https://www.cas.cn/syky/202608/t20260828_5119250.shtml

http://10.1016/j.jclepro.2026.148629

The CAS Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology has developed a two-stage biological conversion system capable of transforming food waste into single-cell protein and lipids.

The research team first pre-treats food waste using micro-oxidation or heat treatment to generate organic acids and enhance the waste’s biodegradability. Subsequently, they utilize the marine microorganism *Schizochytrium* to efficiently convert the lactic acid within these organic acids into single-cell protein. The team selected *Schizochytrium*—a highly efficient converter—to utilize organic acids (such as lactic acid and acetic acid) as sources of carbon and energy. Through cellular metabolic pathways, the organism converts these acids into precursor molecules required for synthesizing cellular biomass. Within 48 hours, it consumes 90% of the organic acids while simultaneously synthesizing microbial protein and intracellular lipids, achieving efficient accumulation of both products.

Following process optimization, the system is projected to yield 258 kg of organic acids per ton of food waste.

The lipids synthesized by *Schizochytrium* are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids—such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—making them suitable for use in functional foods, nutritional supplements, and feed additives. In the future, this technology holds the potential for practical application, enabling the creation of new value from hard-to-process food waste and contributing to the development of a green, sustainable circular economy.