Overview: Lactose Broth is a non-selective enrichment medium primarily used for the presumptive detection of coliform bacteria in food, dairy, and water samples. This medium is recommended by the American Public Health Association (APHA) and is widely used in Most Probable Number (MPN) analysis protocols. The formulation includes peptone and beef extract to provide essential nutrients, while lactose serves as the fermentable carbohydrate. Coliform bacteria such as E. coli ferment lactose to produce gas, which accumulates in Durham tubes placed inside the culture vessels. The medium is also commonly used as a pre-enrichment stage for Salmonella detection in food microbiology.
Applications:
�?? Water & wastewater testing � detection of coliforms in potable and recreational water
�?? Dairy & food microbiology � presumptive E. coli detection in milk, meat, and produce
�?? Salmonella pre-enrichment � boosts pathogen recovery during screening
�?? Fermentation research � monitors lactose metabolism in microbial cultures
Key Features:
�?? Presumptive coliform detection � gas production from lactose fermentation
�?? Supports MPN methods � compatible with standard enumeration procedures
�?? Nutrient-rich formula � peptone and beef extract boost microbial recovery
�?? Pre-enrichment use � enhances isolation of Salmonella from complex samples
�?? Double-strength option � available for high-volume sample testing
Chemical Properties:
�Composition (per liter): Peptone: 10.0 g, Beef Extract: 5.0 g, Lactose: 5.0 g; Final pH: 6.9 � 0.2 at 25�C
Storage: Dehydrated Medium: Store at 15�30�C, in a sealed, dry container. Prepared Medium: Store at 2�8�C, protected from light. Shelf Life: Refer to label; discard if signs of contamination or color change are present.
?? For laboratory use only. Not for medical, food, or veterinary use.