Protein content is a critically important indicator that determines the technological value of grain, which forms high-quality gluten for baking, as well as its nutritional value for feed. This parameter is expressed as a percentage of grain mass and directly affects the crop grade and its market value upon sale.
This indicator depends on the genetic potential of a variety, although the actual result is significantly influenced by agricultural practices and environmental conditions. Key factors in protein accumulation include nitrogen nutrition during the reproductive period, temperature regime, and water balance, with high yields often leading to a decrease in protein concentration due to the dilution effect.
To determine the mass fraction of protein, the Kjeldahl method, which is the arbitration method, the Dumas method, and rapid analysis using IR spectroscopy are employed. In the variety testing system, protein parameters are evaluated in various agro-climatic zones to determine variety stability, with high values for top-grade wheat often reaching 14% and above, whereas values below 11% limit baking properties.