Using Color Science to Improve Livestock Feed Quality
The University of Minnesota—a distinguished research institution in the Midwest—set out to improve livestock nutrition through a novel approach: could color serve as a proxy for dryness and composition in Dry Distillers Grain, a key ethanol byproduct and livestock feed supplement? Optimal dryness affects not only acceptance by animals but also the nutritional value and consistency of the feed.
Researchers turned to HunterLab, renowned for precision in color measurement and more than seven decades of expertise.
Curious how color can simplify lab testing in agriculture? Contact Us to see how color measurement unlocks smarter testing.
Defining the Challenge: Measuring Moisture through Hue
Distillers Grain’s moisture and composition vary widely, influencing livestock feed performance. Traditional methods—like drying and chemical assays—are time-consuming and disruptive. The researchers needed a non-invasive, fast, and reliable technique to measure dryness and composition using color indicators tied to chemical changes.
HunterLab replied with tailored support.
HunterLab proposed the ColorFlex EZ spectrophotometer, now upgraded to ColorFlex L2—offering improved usability without sacrificing performance. A seamless transition from ColorFlex EZ to ColorFlex L2 ensures that existing standards and data could be migrated effortlessly.
The ColorFlex L2 delivers:
- Compact, spill-proof design for rugged, space-efficient labs
- 45°/0° annular illumination for consistent, precise readings
- Standalone operation with a touchscreen interface and no PC required
- Modern interface and diagnostics, along with built-in connectivity to LIMS and SPC systems
Want robust, paperless feed testing? Contact Us to integrate ColorFlex L2 into your lab.
The Pilot: Color-Based Dryness Detection in Action
A collaborative pilot was launched to test the hypothesis. Distillers Grain samples with varying moisture levels underwent color measurement with ColorFlex. L*, a*, and b* values were tracked, and correlations with known dryness levels were analyzed.
ColorFlex consistently flagged moisture-related color shifts—enabling quick, non-destructive assessments and reducing reliance on traditional drying protocols.
Streamlining Lab Workflows—Digitally
Transitioning to ColorFlex transformed laboratory routines. Measurements that previously required drying and repeated sampling were now performed in seconds. The intuitive interface and onboard data storage sped up analysis while ensuring audit-ready record-keeping.
Outcomes: Reliable, Efficient, and Scalable
Results from the partnership included:
- Rapid, moisture-indicative measurements—no longer waiting for drying protocols
- High correlation between color and dryness, enabling predictive modeling
- Smoother documentation and fewer errors, thanks to intuitive digital workflows
- Industry adoption, successful pilot program resulted in widespread use of color spectrophotometry in this industry
Ready to elevate your testing methods with color? Contact Us to discuss pilot deployment.
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Why HunterLab and ColorFlex L2 Stand Apart
With over 70 years of trusted service, HunterLab remains the leader in color solutions. The ColorFlex L2 offers the precision of ColorFlex EZ with next-gen features, unmatched reliability, and ease-of-use for versatile testing—from feed quality to food, chemicals, and more.
Ready to Explore ColorFlex L2?
- Talk with a Color Expert
Let’s define how color measurement simplifies your testing workflows. Contact Us - View the ColorFlex L2 page
Discover features, video, and specifications - Request a Live Demo
See color-based prediction of moisture in your lab or production line. - Set Up Pilot Testing Today
Test the power of color measurement using your samples.
Want precision testing without complexity? Contact Us and bring color-driven insights to your analysis.
Note: “ColorFlex L2” replaces the legacy ColorFlex EZ; data and standards transition seamlessly to support continuity and performance.
