Title: Laboratory Manual for Food Color Testing using Hunter Colorimeter D25LT

Objective:
The primary objective of this laboratory manual is to provide a step-by-step guide for testing
food color using the Hunter Colorimeter D25LT. This instrument is valuable for quantifying
color attributes, ensuring consistency and quality in food products.

Materials and Equipment:

1. Food color samples
2. Hunter Colorimeter D25LT
3. White calibration plate
4. Sample holders or cuvettes
5. Distilled water
6. Lint-free cloth
7. Data analysis software (if applicable)

Safety Precautions:
1. Follow standard laboratory safety guidelines.
2. Handle food color samples with care to avoid contamination.
3. Keep the colorimeter and accessories clean to ensure accurate readings.

Procedure:

1. Instrument Setup:
a. Turn on the Hunter Colorimeter D25LT and allow it to warm up.
b. Place the white calibration plate on the instrument.
c. Calibrate the colorimeter according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Sample Preparation:
a. Prepare food color samples following industry standards.
b. If the sample is liquid, ensure it is well-mixed and free of air bubbles.
c. If the sample is solid, grind it to a fine powder for accurate readings.

3. Sample Measurement:
a. Place the sample holder or cuvette on the colorimeter.
b. If necessary, apply a small amount of the sample on the holder, ensuring an even layer.
c. Close the sample holder securely and place it in the colorimeter.

4. Color Measurement:
a. Initiate the color measurement on the Hunter Colorimeter.
 b. Record the Lab values obtained for the sample.
- L represents lightness (0 = black, 100 = white)
- a represents red-green axis (+a = red, -a = green)
- b represents yellow-blue axis (+b = yellow, -b = blue)

5. Data Analysis:
a. If required, use the data analysis software provided with the colorimeter for a detailed
assessment.
b. Compare the obtained Lab values with reference values or industry standards.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance:

a. After each measurement, clean the sample holder or cuvette thoroughly.
b. Wipe the colorimeter with a lint-free cloth to remove any residue.
c. Perform routine maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer.

Documentation:
Record detailed observations, calibration details, and color measurements in a well-organized
manner. Include information on the food color sample and any deviations from expected results.

Conclusion:
Summarize the findings and provide insights into the color characteristics of the tested food
samples. Use the obtained data to assess color consistency and ensure quality control in food
production.

This laboratory manual serves as a comprehensive guide for conducting food color tests using
the Hunter Colorimeter D25LT, providing accurate and reliable results for quality assurance in
the food industry.