Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for solubilising keratins from a keratin containing starting material such as poultry feathers. The keratins are may be solubilised using a sulphide under alkaline conditions. In the process the cysteine residues of solubilized keratins and are partially modified, e.g. by alkylation. The conditions of solubilisation and partial modification are chosen such that the keratins are also partially hydrolysed. The partially modified and partially hydrolysed keratin may be used as stable dispersions e.g. for the production of films and coatings by casting.