ASTA Color and IC Color of Paprika and Oleoresin Spices

Color is a critical quality component for spices like paprika. The American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) has sampling and measurement standards for paprika, and a spectrophotometer from HunterLab effectively quantifies paprika color values for quality assurance.

How Paprika and Oleoresin Spices Are Made

Paprika is obtained from the ripened, ground, and dried fruit pods of the Capsicum annuum species. The Capsicum annuum peppers used for paprika are sweet and mild with little to no capsaicin, which is a heat compound.

The Capsicum annuum plant is grown until its peppers are mature and have ripened to a red color. The fully ripened peppers are picked for paprika to give the spice its signature red color. The pepper seeds are removed, and the fruit pods are dried in the sun or specially constructed dryers. After drying, producers grind peppers into powder.

Oleoresin paprika — or paprika extract — is the oil-soluble extract obtained by extracting lipids and pigments from Capsicum annuum Linn or Capsicum frutescens fruits. The oleoresin comprises capsaicin, capsanthin, and capsorubin, giving the product a strong taste and odor. Oleoresin paprika is a natural dye that colors foods a deep red color.

Color Standards for Paprika and Oleoresin Spices

Due to its brilliant color, paprika is called a garnish spice. While flavor matters, color plays an equally vital role in its appeal. For this reason, color standards are required to ensure consistency in paprika and oleoresin paprika.

ASTA uses Method 20.1 to quantify the color of paprika and oleoresin paprika. An extract of the paprika or oleoresin is made using acetone. Then, a spectrophotometer measures the absorbance of the oleoresin solution at 460 nanometers (nm) in a 10-millimeter cell. The test uses this specific measurement because the quality indicator of paprika is its degree of yellow in the red.

ASTA's commercial industry color standards generally range from 65 ASTA to 180 ASTA. Obtain the IC Color units by multiplying the ASTA color unit value by 40.

Sample Color Measurement Calculation of Paprika

Here is the calculation used to determine ASTA Color for paprika:

ASTA Color = (Absorbance (460 nm) of Acetone Solution * 164 * I + C) / (Initial Sample weight in grams)

Calculate the absorbance value from the transmittance value using the following formula:

Absorbance (460 nm) = -log10 of Transmittance factor at 460 nm

Alternatively, a HunterLab software package does allow the display of spectral data in absorbance (A) units, so the absorbance value at 460 nm can be read directly from the display and entered into the formula.

The “I” variable in the formula refers to the instrument correction factor, and the “C” is the offset correction factor, accommodating cell differences.

How HunterLab Spectrophotometers Meet the Color Standards for Paprika and Oleoresin Spices

The spectrophotometers from HunterLab are an effective solution for monitoring paprika color. Our equipment can identify color variations the human eye cannot see to enhance quality control and production efficiency. You can use your spectrophotometer data to develop color tolerance levels for your paprika production.

Obtain ASTA Values With Vista

Vista is HunterLab’s top-rated spectrophotometer for measuring paprika extract solutions via transmission to determine ASTA values. This device has the lowest total cost of ownership in our range and delivers tangible benefits like high efficiency and maximum value.

We’ve built Vista for easy-to-use operation, including features like one-touch standardization and modular sample handling. Our solution also has USB, Micro USB, and Ethernet ports for quick connectivity and data export.  

Plus, Vista includes a spill-resistant sample compartment, industrial-grade construction, and simultaneous haze measurement, making it a versatile workhorse. Onboard software and availability of the most common transmission color and haze scales and indices simplify data analysis.

Choose the ColorFlex L2 for Enhanced Confidence in Paprika Appearance Measurement

The ColorFlex L2 is a highly accurate, easy-to-use solution for various spectral data collection applications, including capturing reflectance measurements in paprika powder. This device provides numerous advantages that make it a superior choice for assessing appearance and true color to uphold product consistency:

• Intuitive design: The solution has a user-friendly design and smart interface to minimize the learning curve.
• Data migration: The solution enables data migration through USB connectivity so users can quickly share and export essential information.
• Advanced software: The solution includes Essentials 2.0, which offers improved reliability and swift access to spectral data results.
• Sampling precision: The solution contains an internal camera, which supports correct positioning and captures live images for data agreement.
• Spectral data accuracy: The solution uses 45°a:0° annular illuminated optical geometry, which delivers exceptional accuracy and aids in quality control.
• Immediate deployment: The solution is ready to use immediately and comes with an integrated wizard for accelerated setup.

Learn More About Color Measurement Solutions From HunterLab

HunterLab is the leading expert in color measurements in the spice industry. We have more than 70 years of experience designing and manufacturing spectrophotometers that deliver consistent and accurate results for color measurements.

Purchase the ColorFlex L2, Vista, or other high-quality spectrophotometers from HunterLab for measuring paprika color today, or contact us for more information.