plate count method

The plate count method is a technique used to estimate the number of bacteria in a sample, such as food or water. In this process, a small amount of the sample is spread on a solid growth medium, like agar, and incubated at a specific temperature. Over time, bacteria grow into visible colonies. By counting these colonies, scientists can calculate the concentration of bacteria in the original sample. This method is important for assessing hygiene and safety in various products, helping to ensure they are free from harmful levels of microorganisms.