Colour Glossary

Malt Extracts
Dark brown colour resulting from the processing of barley malts. Malt extracts are similar in shade to caramel colours, and have similar functionality in applications.
Marigold Extract
See Lutein.
MCT Oil
Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil is a form of fat found naturally in palm and coconut oils. MCT Oil is often used as a PHO-free oil source for oil-dispersions by the colour industry.
Metamerism
A phenomenon where a substance or object appears to change colour based on the light source used.
Mica-based Pearlescent Pigment
A pearlescent pigment formed by depositing titanium dioxide onto mica pigment. As a mineral-based pigment, mica-based pearlescent pigments are extremely stable to heat and light.
Monascus
See Red Rice
Mono Blend
A term used to describe a dry dye blend specially processed to eliminate the effect of flashing. See also: Flashing.
Mottling
A visual effect created during colour application on a product that gives the final appearance of irregular spots, streaks, blotches of different shades of colour. For example, the artistic technique can be applied to panned confectionery pieces.