Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Packaging and Graphic Media Science, College of Engineering Technology, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, United States
2
Light and Color Management Consultancy, Büyüksehir Mahallesi, Bahçeli Sokak 3, A16A Blok D17, Beylikdüzü, 34520, Istanbul, Turkiye
3
insights4print.ceo, Ten Eekhovelei 93, 2100 Deurne, Belgium
4
Packaging and Graphic Media Science, College of Engineering Technology, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, United States
Abstract
Recent revisions to the Pantone Matching System (PMS), including the reduction of base inks from 18 to 11 and the transition toward subscription-based digital access, represent a fundamental shift in how spot colors are defined, communicated, and reproduced across the printing and packaging industries. This paper critically examines the technical, practical, and colorimetric implications of these changes, with particular emphasis on ink formulation transparency, reproducibility, and measurement consistency. Through comparative analysis of legacy and revised Pantone base inks, spatial mapping of color distributions in CIELAB space, and evaluation of published formulation data, several inconsistencies are identified, including redundant color clustering, ultra-low formulation percentages that exceed realistic manufacturing tolerances, and identical L*a*b* values assigned to materially different ink mixtures. The study further highlights discrepancies arising from differing measurement conditions (M0, M1, M2) across platforms such as Pantone Connect, PantoneLIVE, and ICC-based workflows, underscoring systemic misalignment in color definition protocols. While recent reforms aim to improve sustainability and streamline ink inventories, the findings suggest that these benefits are accompanied by reduced practical clarity for print buyers and manufacturers, particularly in common “number-based” spot color workflows. Open-access alternatives are discussed as potential pathways toward greater transparency, interoperability, and spectral robustness.
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