Protein content and amino acid spectrum of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] as influenced by nitrogen and sulphur fertilizers

Summary The effect of N and S fertilizers on yield, protein content and amino acid composition of the tropical cereal finger millet was studied in field and sand culture experiments. In the field the grain yield measured from 2400 to 4100 kg/ha, and the seed crude protein from 7 to 13% with rates of N up to 150 kg/ha. Seed crude protein was high in methionine and cystine, but contained less sulphur amino acids when the seed was high in protein.Supplies in excess failed to increase the lower methionine and cystine contents of the crude protein.Sulphur deficiency drastically reduced the synthesis of sulphur amino acids, concomitantly raising the aspartic acid/asparagine content of the leaves up to 45 per cent of their total N content. An S:N weight ratio of 1:10 in the seeds and 1:15 in the leaves indicates adequate supply of sulphur. The importance of finger millet for human nutrition is considered in relation to increasing substitution with other crops, use of nitrogen fertilizers, and the actual sulphur status of soils in East Africa.Sponsored by the Norwegian Agency for International Development.Sponsored by the Norwegian Agency for International Development.