Prepress & Color Control Queries, ZQA

How to manage metamerism risk in print packaging

What is the best industrial solution for managing the risk of Metamerism and preventing color mismatch under various light sources?

The best industrial solution for managing the risk of Metamerism is the mandatory use of multi-illuminant light booths during final evaluation. Observers must inspect the sample under D65, in addition to the D50 reference light, to ensure that two metameric colors which appeared identical under one light source are not revealed under variable lighting conditions.

Furthermore, emphasis must be placed on the standardization of color information. It is insufficient to rely solely on L*a*b* values; contractors must be required to provide a Spectral Data Report for the inks used. This ensures that the ink’s SPD (Spectral Power Distribution) profile adheres to the defined standard, minimizing the risk of metamerism.

Aligned with: X-Rite / CIE / GMG