the microbiological load (i.e., number of viable organisms in or on the object or surface) or organic material on a surface or object prior to decontamination, or sterilization, also known as “bioload” or “microbial load.
Bioburden or microbial limit testing is performed on pharmaceutical products and medical products as a quality control measure. Products or components used in the pharmaceutical or medical field require control of microbial levels during processing and handling. Bioburden or microbial limit testing on these products prove that the requirements are met.