Follow The Right Steps. Don't Let Your Colour Game Go Cloudy!

Whether you're using visual or automated methods, consistency in your testing process is crucial. By following a set of well-defined best practices, you can ensure reliable, repeatable, and accurate colour results, every time.

Do's and Don'ts during Edible Oil Colour Measurement:

  • Ensure your instrument is under AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) and schedule regular servicing to maintain accuracy and performance.
  • Have the instrument serviced regularly by a trained service engineer to ensure it is properly cleaned and maintained, reducing the risk of inaccurate measurements.
  • Clean the measurement cell properly using appropriate chemicals, based on the type of sample being tested.
  • Use clear, transparent samples with no turbidity for accurate results.
  • Avoid bubbles in the sample while placing it in the sample chamber as they can affect the results.
  • Don’t proceed with colour measurement if the sample shows a blue value, unless testing olive oil. This may indicate turbidity. Try gently heating the sample to clarify it before retesting.
  • If the total RYBN units exceed 20, it is recommended to reduce the path length before performing the colour analysis of the sample.
  • Record path length and sample temperature during testing to maintain a consistent and repeatable procedure.
  • Heat the sample to at least 10°C above its cloud point before measurement, as recommended.
  • Use neutral filters during manual colour measurement when needed, to adjust brightness caused by any medium (like glass) between the sample and the observer.
  • The international standards recommend to have 30 seconds rest, before matching the other sample to reduce eye fatigue
  • Use of neutral racks is recommended to adjust sample brightness, which may be affected by multiple racks between the light source and the sample during colour measurement.
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  • Do not wear tinted or photochromic (light-sensitive) glasses during the analysis, as they may affect the accuracy of visual assessments.

  • It is recommended to have 2–3 operators conduct the sample analysis. At least two of them should obtain matching results to ensure consistency.

  • Have the operator’s eyes tested every 2 to 3 years to ensure accurate manual colour matching.
  • If the sample is heated, stir it gently with a glass rod to minimize convection currents that may interfere with the analysis.

  • Ensure that no internal components such as bulbs, paint, or other parts of the instrument have been altered or modified.

  • Always use high-quality cells or cuvettes from reputable manufacturers to ensure consistent and reliable results.

Need help choosing the right method or instruments for your edible oil testing?