The colored dots on cereal boxes are called process control patches or printer's color blocks, and they are used for quality control in the printing process.
Understanding Printer's Color Blocks
These seemingly random dots aren't decorative; they serve a crucial technical purpose during the packaging printing process. Here's a breakdown:
- Quality Control: The primary function is to ensure the colors printed on the cereal box accurately match the intended design.
- Color Calibration: Printing machines use a combination of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black (CMYK) inks to create a wide range of colors. The color blocks represent each of these primary colors, as well as combinations, to allow technicians to check the ink density and registration.
- Ink Density Monitoring: By visually inspecting or using a spectrophotometer, printers can determine if the ink is being applied at the correct density. If the ink is too light or too heavy, the colors on the final product will be inaccurate.
- Registration Accuracy: Registration refers to the alignment of the different color plates (CMYK). If the plates are misaligned, the colors will appear blurry or out of focus. The color blocks help printers verify that the plates are properly aligned.
Why are they important?
General Mills, among other companies, have emphasized the importance of these patches because they directly affect the visual appeal and branding of their products. Consistent and accurate colors are vital for:
- Brand Recognition: Consumers associate specific colors with certain brands. Inconsistent colors can erode brand recognition.
- Product Appeal: Vibrant and accurate colors make the packaging more visually appealing, attracting customers.
- Information Accuracy: Especially where nutritional information or images of the cereal are concerned, color accuracy is essential.
In short, while they may seem like a minor detail, these color blocks are an integral part of ensuring the quality and consistency of printed packaging.
