This dataset supports a study on the use of image-based colorimetric analysis for predicting carotenoid and anthocyanin content in carrots. The CIELAB/Ch colour space, derived from digital images, offers a non-destructive and accessible method for pigment estimation. This dataset reports the RGB and CIELAB/Ch values found in 16 carrot varieties of different genotypic colour diversity (i.e., white, yellow, orange, red, purple). Samples were photographed under six light conditions (WF -1, WF 0, WF +1, PF 0, PF +1, PF +2), with colour calibration applied prior to analysing CIELAB/Ch parameters. Pigment content was quantified using spectrophotometry (total carotenoids and anthocyanins) and high-performance liquid chromatography (individual carotenoids).

FIJI (ImageJ), 2.14.0/1.54f

Data will be provided under request.

This data is a part of research modelling the pigment-colour relationships between image analysis data and wet-lab pigment quantification of 16 carrots varieties of different colours. Associated to this research are a literature review (with its protocol) and an anthocyanin spectrophotometric determination protocol.

Filter column names correspond with two image acquisition lighting set-ups, without filter (WF) and polarisation filter (PF), each with three different exposure steps (six light filters in total; WF -1, WF 0, WF +1, PF 0, PF +1, PF +2). Six carrot samples per 16 varieties assessed (n = 96). Carrot variety names appear anonymised, and coded according to their root colour (i.e., white = W, yellow = Y, orange = O, red = R, purple = P, purple/yellow = PY). RGB colour values were assessed via colour histogram in FIJI (ImageJ) and are reported as average R (red), G (green), and B (blue) (standard deviation per parameter stated as Stdev). Values were then converted into CIELAB/Ch parameters (L, a, b, C, and h°). Total carotenoid content (TCC) and total anthocyanin content (TAC) quantified spectrophotometrically reported in mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) per carrot, as well as individual carotenoids (lutein, lycopene, α-carotene, and ß-carotene) quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Average per variety described in following columns. Moisture content per sample was also quantified.