Since cereals consist of individual, non-uniform particles, the surface is considered here as a whole. For the colour measurement of cereals with the Aeros from HunterLab, the product of a batch is filled several times into a bowl, which rotates under the eccentrically positioned sensor (the bowl size can be varied depending on the available sample quantity). During rotation, several measurements are taken in succession and the average value is automatically calculated. Due to the unusually large measuring surface that is scanned, the colour of the food can be reproduced very accurately. As this non-contact measuring method is very user-friendly and the measurement results are extremely accurate and repeatable, HunterLab generally recommends this method for measuring cereals. Handling this type of sample is straightforward, as a tray is simply filled with the product and placed on the turntable. Just make sure that the bottom of the bowl is completely covered by the material.
The height adjustment of the Aeros ensures the ideal height of the sensor above the sample for exact colour measurement via IR distance measurement. For the measurement, the bowl rotates under the sensor while the device performs 35 measurements in 5 seconds and calculates the average value. This covers a surface area of 177 cm² and provides an accurate and repeatable measurement of the colour of the product.
A comparison with intermediate measurements without a measuring flash guarantees that the measurement is insensitive to the existing ambient light. The recommended setting for the colour scale is CIE Lab (for the complete colour description) and D65/10 for illuminant/observer.
With cereals, consumers associate a consistent and appealing product colour with consistent and high quality. That is why the colour is carefully developed and regularly checked during production. Although the surface of such foods is not uniform, it is possible to guarantee reliable results with simple handling using special measuring techniques.
The Aeros from HunterLab not only scores with its easy handling in terms of sample filling, but also makes work easier with its integrated and user-friendly QC software.
