AbstractThe protein of distal halves of barley kernels or small meal samples was extracted with ethanolic sodium hydroxide solution. After dilution, the protein content was estimated with a spectrophotometer by measurements at 215 and 225 nm. The tryptophan content was estimated from the same extract by a spectrophotofluorimeter. The methods showed high correlations with those used for control. The presented methods can be used in screening kernels in segregating ears or selecting single plants.