A comparison of some rapid tests to assess extent of modification during a laboratory scale malting procedure

Samples of three barley cultivars were assessed following steeping and at daily intervals during flooring. In addition to determination of hot water extract, several rapid tests were performed on small samples, to assess extent of modification. Certain procedures suggested that modification appeared to continue in cv. Triumph, although a maximum extract figure had been reached and this was attributed to cell wall breakdown continuing after the cell contents had been modified. Malt milling energy provided the most rapid assessment of endosperm breakdown and also enabled accurate prediction of hot water extract at any time between two and seven days germination.