METHODS FOR DETERMINING BACTERIAL-POPULATIONS IN FOODS AND FOOD-PRODUCTS - A CRITICAL-EVALUATION

Bacterial population in food may cause foodborne infections on consump tion or spoilage of food, if stored under adverse environmental condit ions. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to estimate their popul ation in foods. There are several methods for determining the bacteria l population in foods, each one having its own advantages and disadvan tages. Rapid method to estimate microbial load in food and food produc ts assumes critical importance from the view point of requirement of f ood industry and the consumers. This review critically analyses the me thods for estimating bacterial populations in foods and discusses the rapid methods for food quality. The advantages and limitations of the methods are also delineated.