The term ‘‘indicator’’ implies that common causes affect the levels of both indicator microorganisms and pathogens and that these causes can be identified and controlled. The use of measured levels of an indicator organism within SPC is based on the basic premise that the process can be improved over time, by identifying a cause of higher-than-expected indicator organism levels and taking an action that would result in a decrease of levels of the indicator organism, which in turn could also decrease levels and incidence of pathogens on the product.