Understanding and Teaching the Most Probable Number Technique1

Abstract

The most probable number (MPN) technique is extensively used in food microbiology. However, because statistics involved often are cumbersome and it is difficult to obtain some of the widely scattered literature, many individuals are not able to delve into the subject to gain a thorough understanding of the method. To overcome these inherent difficulties, this review and discussion was prepared as an introduction and aid in presenting the MPN method to students and individuals working in food microbiology.