The Standard Plate Count (SPC) has a prescribed incubation time of ______ hours at _______ C.

The Standard Plate Count (SPC) is a widely recognized method for estimating the number of viable bacteria in a milk sample. The procedure involves incubating the sample under specific controlled conditions to allow for bacterial growth, which then can be quantified. The incubation time of 48 hours at 32 degrees Celsius is prescribed because it provides an ideal environment for a broad range of mesophilic bacteria commonly found in milk to proliferate.

At this temperature and duration, the growth of these bacteria is optimized, allowing for a more accurate count of viable cells present in the sample. Shorter incubation times or different temperatures may not allow sufficient growth for accurate measurement, which can lead to unreliable results. Hence, the specific choice of 48 hours at 32 degrees Celsius ensures a standardized approach across samples, facilitating consistent and reliable assessment of milk quality.