Description
This report summarizes protein concentration data for winter wheat varieties evaluated in the 2025-2026 Oklahoma State University Wheat Variety Performance Tests. Wheat protein concentration is an important factor influencing grain marketability and end-use quality; however, environmental conditions and management practices, particularly nitrogen fertilization and drought stress, often have a greater impact on protein levels than varietal genetics. Grain samples were collected from replicated field trials across Oklahoma and analyzed using near-infrared spectroscopy to determine protein concentration on a 12% moisture basis. Results are presented by variety and location, along with deviations from location means to facilitate comparison of varietal protein performance across diverse environments. Several varieties, including Doublestop CL+ and Green Hammer, consistently exhibited above-average protein concentrations, whereas others, such as Iba, tended to produce below-average protein concentrations. The report emphasizes that protein quantity alone is not a reliable indicator of protein functionality or overall end-use quality. Statistical analyses, including least significant difference (LSD) values, are provided to help distinguish meaningful varietal differences. These data offer producers, breeders, and industry stakeholders valuable information for variety selection and crop management decisions aimed at balancing grain yield, protein concentration, and end-use quality.
