coliformsE

Coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals, as well as in the environment such as soil and water. The term "coliform" refers to a specific set of characteristics these bacteria share, particularly their ability to ferment lactose at 37 degrees Celsius and produce acid and gas. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a well-known species within the coliform group and is often used as an indicator organism for fecal contamination.

While not all coliform bacteria are pathogenic, their presence in water or food can suggest a potential risk of contamination by disease-causing microorganisms from feces. Therefore, coliforms are frequently monitored in drinking water and food production to ensure public health and safety. Detecting coliforms typically involves laboratory tests that identify their presence and, in some cases, differentiate between various types, including E. coli. The absence of coliforms in treated water or food generally indicates that the water or food is safe from recent fecal contamination.