Whether you manufacture natural products or use natural colorants to dye or colour your supplies, some variation is likely within your final outcomes. Minor variations are acceptable — but how much is too much, and when does colour variation start affecting your sales profitability? Learn more and see how HunterLab's colorimetry tests can deliver the most accurate colour measurements.
Colour variation refers to the slight differences in pigment that come from natural colour sources or even between different batches of the same artificial colours. It most commonly occurs in:
These natural colour differences can come from a variety of factors, like the location of origin, the development process, and even the environmental factors during development, such as humidity and temperature.
The answer to this question differs from application to application, as most people cannot see the full range of colours in the world. Some applications require tight tolerances to ensue ‘colour harmony’, meaning two samples placed side by side will have the same colour and appearance. Examples are automotive coatings, vinyl siding, textile applications, beverage products, packaging, etc. Other applications allow for a wider tolerance, or ‘colour range’, because natural colour variation is expected. Examples here include tree nuts, potato chips, and other snack foods. Still, there are some ways to gauge colour similarity and make sure your newer creations stay true to the original design. To maintain consistency on a scientific level, many manufacturers turn to DeltaE, or E-Factor.
E-Factor is a colour scale that assigns a numerical value to hues, allowing you to align your colours as closely to your ideal as possible. A uniform appearance in your products instills confidence in your customers, assuring them that you've taken the time to ensure precision in all parts of your product.
Manufacturers can gauge a sample's E-Factor through a process called a colorimetry test. A colorimetry test puts all colour ranges on a graph so you can see exactly where your colour falls in relation to past designs.
With a colorimeter, you can view and measure your product through a light source and three calibrated photocells. These aspects measure the colour and transmit it to online software so you can replicate the colour and improve overall product consistency and value.
Turn to colour measurement tools from HunterLabWhen minimal colour variation is crucial to delivering a consistent, reliable product to your customers. We offer both portable spectrophotometers and benchtop models so you can obtain accurate measurements in the field and at home.
HunterLab goes beyond color, delivering precise, science-backed solutions that help industries achieve superior quality and appearance control. As a global leader in spectrophotometry, we empower businesses to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance product consistency—directly impacting the bottom line. By combining innovation, real-world expertise, and sustainable measurement solutions, we help manufacturers optimize production, minimize material loss, and meet the highest industry standards. Follow us on LinkedIn