What Is the Best Way to Measure the Color of Herbs?

Herbs add flavor and visual appeal to food, making proper quality control processes essential in production. In mixed herbs, nonuniform piece shapes and sizes may make measurement more challenging. This challenge calls for a specialized device and proper techniques to maintain high product quality and consumer appeal.

Use the Right Measurement Method

Several measurement methods exist for herb color assessment, including visual comparisons. However, these techniques come with challenges, such as differences in how each individual perceives color. Collecting quantitative data on herb color using a spectrophotometer is a vastly more accurate method. This device uses a controlled light source and detector to quantify light wavelengths and create specific numerical values. 

Pay Attention to Industry Standards

Various industry standards exist for measuring the color of different materials. It's important to follow the associated practices to secure more accurate results. You'll also need to note the applicable scales for assessing herb color, such as CIE Color and Hunter L, a, b. Choose a spectrophotometer that conforms to these standards and measures according to the chosen scale. 

Prepare Samples Properly

The right spectrophotometer makes sample preparation more manageable, but proper practice still enhances results. Pour enough of the herb into a sample cup to create a consistent layer and place it in the spectrophotometer to measure. 

Analyze Data and Adjust Processes

Once you collect measurement results, compare them to previous tests or an accepted standard to determine the difference. If significant color differences arise, you may need to adjust production and preservation processes, such as changing drying time and temperature. 

Once dried, the herbs will require proper storage in airtight containers and dark areas to protect their color. If you notice chromatic data variations that arise during storage, you may need to change storage conditions for enhanced quality. 

Choose the Right Spectrophotometer

The right spectrophotometer enhances every aspect of the herb color measurement process, so choose high-quality equipment like the ColorFlex L2. This spectrophotometer uses 45ºa:0º annular illuminated optical geometry and offers the versatility for measuring various material consistencies, including powders and granules.

We've designed the ColorFlex L2 as a compact benchtop device with a spill-proof case, saving space and easing upkeep. Deployment and operation are equally simple, with ready-to-go integration and an intuitive startup process that enables users to learn in minutes and keep up with production speeds.

This spectrophotometer is also an independent color workstation, which means no connection to external PCs is necessary to run software.

Contact HunterLab for More Information

We have over 70 years of experience creating high-quality color measurement solutions for numerous applications, including herbs and other powders with irregular consistencies. Contact our team online for a quote or to learn more about the ColorFlex L2.