What to Know About Meat Color Measurements

The color of meat tells a story, and when consumers see your cuts on the market, they're going to judge its appearance. That's why meat color measurement plays such a vital role in your marketing. Consistent, recognizable color is key, and at HunterLab, we've spent years developing the perfect solution for you to complete accurate color measurement and grading.

Understand Common Meat Color Reactions

What color do you think of when you hear raw meat? Most likely, you're thinking of bright red or pink, a color caused by the protein myoglobin mixing with oxygen. These are the colors we learn that indicate fresh and healthy raw meat. While this is generally true, the exact color of meat can vary by the animal's species, diet and many other factors throughout its life. Also, the more it is exposed to oxygen, the more likely it is to fade or darken in color.

Discoloration does not necessarily indicate a piece of meat that is past its prime, but for a majority of consumers, discolored meat is the first red flag that they should avoid certain cuts and find another option.

Recognize the Effect of Outside Influences

Even when your meat is the proper color, outside factors can change the public perception of it. Consider these when you're making your sales plan:

• Background or packaging: Your meat's color will look different when it's placed on a white styrofoam package when compared to the butcher's block. Using packaging that enhances your meat's coloration can ensure buyers see your meat the way you want them to.
• Lighting: In any scientific measurement of meat color, you control variables such as lighting. When your package reaches its point of sale, however, you have no control over any one location's lighting preferences and whether it changes throughout the day. Try to evaluate your meat under a range of natural and artificial lighting to get a clear picture of what your average consumer may see.

Use the Right Tools for Meat Color Measurements

How do you make sure you get precise meat color measurements every time? While there are no strict guidelines to measure the color of meat, there are best practices, like using a spectrophotometer to gauge objective color without the influences we mentioned above affecting your outcome. You can learn more about the top spectrophotometers on the market on HunterLab's meat coloration page.

Explore HunterLab’s Industry-Leading Spectrophotometers

Meat color measurement can mean the difference between your meat going home with a loyal customer and it expiring on a store shelf. A spectrophotometer is your solution for consistent, quality meat that your buyers will know and appreciate. Contact HunterLab today to get a quote on the MiniScan EZ 4500, the industry leader in measuring the color of meat.