Surface color distribution analysis by computer vision compared to sensory testing: Vacuum fried fruits as a case study

•Sensory tests are suitable for color distribution analysis, but quantification is limited.•The IRIS-Alphasoft system provides meaningful color distribution quantification.•A customized flexible color distribution analysis system was developed.•The Computer Vision System (CVS) provides a flexible method to perform color distribution analysis.•Color distribution analysis unlocks the limitation of traditional color analysis.