Description
Enterococci may be considered an essential part of the autochthonous microflora of humans and animals. Because of its wide distribution, Enterococci can also occur in different food commodities, especially those of animal origin. Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium are relatively heat-resistant and may characteristically survive in traditional milk pasteurization procedures. E. faecium is markedly heat-tolerant and is a spoilage agent in marginally processed canned hams. Most of the Enterococci are relatively resistant to freezing, and, unlike Escherichia coli, they readily survive this treatment. A wide variety of selective media for Enterococcus has been recommended and used. Indicator substances added to the media are useful for the recognition of Enterococci and for the rapid identification of single species on the basis of colony appearance. Citrate Azide Tween Carbonate Base is a selective media formulated by Burkwall and Hartmann. It was later modified by Reuter for the identification of Enterococci in meat, meat products, dairy products and other foodstuffs. The test sample can be directly streaked on the surface of the agar.
