What Is the Best Way to Measure the Color of Fruit Juices?

A spectrophotometer is the best way to determine the color of fruit juices, as it measures color similar to how the human eye works. It's best to maximize objectivity by quantifying color through the use of industry standard color scales. When you measure the color of a juice using a spectrophotometer, the result is expressed in percentage or number form, eliminating room for error and eye fatigue from subjective methods.

Measure Fruit Juices Using the Right Equipment

Fruit juices can vary in opacity, meaning light won't travel through various beverages the same way. Use a reflectance spectrophotometer to measure opaque liquids like guava or orange juice accurately and employ a reflectance or transmittance spectrophotometer for translucent beverages like apple juice. Selecting the right tools helps you produce accurate results.

Remain Consistent Throughout the Measuring Process

Ensure everyone in your lab uses the same testing methods and metrics and prepares the samples consistently. A uniform testing environment ensures you measure your products accurately to uphold industry color standards.

Don't Contaminate Your Sample or Equipment

A quality spectrophotometer will facilitate contactless color measuring. To prevent damage, the juice shouldn't touch your equipment, nor should the equipment contaminate your juice. Clean all fingerprints and sterilize your tools.

Measure Your Juice Objectively

To help maintain color consistency, measure your fruit juice objectively. The human eye assesses color objectively, but not every person sees color the same way, which introduces subjectivity when assessing solely by sight. A spectrophotometer is the best way to quantify color results with an accurate reading.

Gather Appropriate Data After Your Color Measurements

Analyzing your data after each test can help you meet industry color standards. The most crucial factor to look for is color consistency. For example, when you have 100% natural orange juice, color variations can be due to sugar or citric acid levels, which change the color of citrus beverages. Gathering data after your tests can also indicate if you need to adjust some of your manufacturing methods.

Trust HunterLab for Accurate and Speedy Color Measurements for Your Fruit Juices

Due to its natural composition, the color of fruit juice may vary from lot to lot. Color variation can occur due to temperature changes, sugar levels, dilution, and many other factors. A reliable spectrophotometer that delivers objective measurements is vital, as it can help you improve your production process and storage methods.

We at HunterLab have been producing quality color-measuring tools for decades, and our commitment to innovation keeps us moving forward. For more information on our spectrophotometers, get in touch today by calling us, or get a quote using our online form.