Tryptophan is very useful for the human body, because it helps to secrete very important hormones and possesses multiple physiological functions in the metabolic transformations of nutrients. In this article we explain the characteristics of tryptophan and its importance in nutrition and health being. Therefore, was argued the correlation between the physiological need in tryptophan and the person's age. In the technological practice of food processing the level of tryptophan amino acid is also important, serving in tha last time as an indicator of quality meat. The main foods and food proteins that have a high tryptophan potential were highlighted. Hydrolyzed protein products and transgenic seeds are presented as useful in strengthening the diet with accessible tryptophan.