Practical 4: Protein Content (Kjeldahl Method)

Why is concentrated sulphuric acid used in protein digestion?

It breaks down organic material and converts nitrogen to ammonium.

What is the purpose of catalyst tablets in Kjeldahl digestion?

To speed up the digestion process.

Why is nitrogen used to estimate protein content?

Nitrogen is a key element in amino acids making up proteins.

Protein calculation formula?

% Crude Protein = % N × Factor (6.25 for meat, 5.46 for groundnuts)

Why are different nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors used?

Due to varying nitrogen content in different food proteins.