CHROMagar ECC - Data Sheet

Performance: Coliforms, Enterobacteriacae able to ferment lactose (lactose positive Enterobacteriacae), are bacteria present in human and warm blooded animals intestinal flora, in the soil and water. Coliforms are proof of organic, environmental or faecal contamination. Faecal contamination, due to coliforms coming from animal waste, consists mainly of Escherichia coli and thermotolerant Klebsiella. Strict regulations exist for E. coli/coliform presence in water and food samples. This can be explained by the importance of these germs in determining water and food safety. E. coli can contaminate drinking water when the water treatment system is inadequate or during periods of very high rainfalls. Monitoring of food and water production is essential. High contamination may lead to suspension of the water supply and food recall by supermarkets