Bioburden

Bioburden refers to the total number of living microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, present on a surface, device, or in a product before it undergoes sterilization or cleaning. In medical and manufacturing settings, reducing bioburden is essential to prevent infections and ensure safety. It is measured to assess the effectiveness of cleaning processes; lower bioburden levels indicate cleaner, safer items. Managing bioburden is a critical step in maintaining hygiene standards and preventing contamination in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.