LACTOSE BROTH

Examination of water, foods, ingredients and raw materials, for the presence of marker groups such as coliforms is one of the most common tests in a microbiology laboratory, partly because of the relative ease and speed with which these tests can be accomplished. It is a valuable bacterial indicator for determining the extent of fecal contamination of recreational surface waters or drinking water.
Lactose Broth is recommended by APHA in the performance and confirmation of the presumptive test for coliform bacteria in water, food and milk. This medium was initially listed as an alternative to Lauryl Sulfate Broth in the presumptive Standard Total Coliform Multiple-Tube (MPN) Test for water analysis. Although it is not the original formulation, Lactose Broth provides excellent results in Eijkman Assays of gas production at 45?C, which is a characteristic of Escherichia coli. While preparing this medium it is important to avoid overheating and to distribute it into tubes before sterilization.

for detection of coliform bacteria in water and food products