Bacterial count refers to the measurement of the number of bacteria present in a given sample, such as food, water, or clinical specimens. This count is important for assessing the safety and quality of products, as high levels of bacteria can indicate contamination and potential health risks. Methods for determining bacterial count include colony-forming unit (CFU) counts, where samples are cultured on agar plates, and most probable number (MPN) techniques, which estimate bacterial concentration based on statistical methods. Accurate bacterial counts help ensure public health and safety in various industries, including food and healthcare.