Influence of starches from different sources on protein utilization in rats.

1. The role of the starch component of cereals and legumes on the utilization of casein-protein was studied. 2. In comparison with maize starch the legume and potato starches caused a significant lowering of net protein utilization (NPU). And this reduction in NPU could be partially restored by cooking the diets before they were fed to the rats. 3. It is suggested that in NPU studies involving rats the experimental diet should always be cooked so that the conclusions drawn may be applicable to human diets.