Cell counts

Cell counts are the numbers of cells present in a given sample quantity. In dairying, somatic cell counts in milk indicate udder health and milk quality, with high counts signalling mastitis and triggering penalties or rejection. In microbiology, total viable cell counts measure microbial loads in foods and on surfaces, guiding hygiene assessment, process validation and shelf-life decisions. Accurate, standardized counting methods underpin quality systems across the food industry. Automated flow cytometry now counts cells in minutes, replacing slow manual microscopy.