Plate Loop Method for Determining Total Viable Count of Orange Juice

The plate loop count as described in Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products. 13th Edition, was evaluated as a simplified technique for determining total viable counts in single strength orange juice. This procedure requires use of standardized loops (0.01 and 0.001 ml) for making serial dilutions instead of pipets and dilution bottles. Data show there is a statistically significant difference in results between the plate count and plate loop count procedures for determining total viable population of orange juice. However, since the difference is so small for normal operating conditions, the plate loop method is a reliable alternate to routine plating procedure. It can also be done without flaming the loop between samples. The plate loop count saves time and equipment, but requires analysts to be specially trained to maintain this degree of accuracy.