Cereal crops generally are considered to be a source of energy in food and feed, but they also supply 60 and 25% of the human dietary pro tein in developing and developed countries, respectively (Orr, 1978). Research on the improvement of oats (Avena sativa L.) as a protein source has been limited relative to that done on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)> rice (Oryza sativa L.)« and maize (Zea mays L.). Oats rank sixth among the grains in world production, and its protein yield per ha exceeds that of all the legumes except soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) (Bright and Shewry, 1983). Oat groats (caryopses) are higher in protein percentage and in protein production per ha than other cereals, and their amino acid profile is superior to all cereals except rice and rye (Secale cereale L.) (Pomeranz, 1973; Youngs et al., 1983; Zarkadas, 1982). Also, unlike other cereals, as protein percentage of oats is enhanced, the amino acid profile remains unchanged (