This paper presents a simple method that shows how digital imaging and software analysis can be combined for color measurement. The results showed that L*, a* and b* values from Hunter colorimeter and the digital imaging method had appropriate correlation with R-2 of greater than 0.98, however color values obtained from digital imaging method can be used only to monitor the trend of color changes and relative comparison and there is a noticeable difference between L*, a* and if from digital imaging and values of Hunterlab colorimeter. By using equations presented in this paper. L*, a* and b* values obtained from digital imaging method can be successfully converted to Hunterlab color values. Changes in color of Mazafati date during ripening by hot acetic acid solution were monitored by use of this method. L*, a*, and b* values of the samples decreased during ripening. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.