ABSTRACT
Predictive microbiology has emerged as an essential element of the modern food microbiology area, making it possible to move from a hazard-based and final product testing approach to a risk-based management approach based on process control. The software can be classified into two categories: some require a level of modelling and computer programming expertise, while others would be more appropriate for beginners and intermediate users without prior expertise in mathematical modelling or programming. Assessing the user experience for each software is key but remains a relatively subjective exercise. In fact, it depends on several criteria, such as the user profile and level of expertise, the targeted applications. Besides, it is important for the users that models are validated and that the software is made as user-friendly as possible. Surprisingly, less importance is given to regular updates or to specific work on model specificity.
