Food hygiene methods: For detecting and enumerating coliform bacteria in foods, which culture media are preferably employed in routine microbiological examination?

Introduction / Context:
Coliform testing is a cornerstone of food quality monitoring because coliforms indicate hygiene lapses and potential fecal contamination. Several selective/differential media are validated for screening, confirmation, and enumeration.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Presumptive tests often use lactose broths (e.g., MacConkey) with indicators.
• Plate counts for coliforms commonly use VRBA or EMB.
• Methods depend on matrix and regulatory standard (e.g., ISO, BAM).

Concept / Approach:
MacConkey broth supports presumptive lactose fermentation with bile salts and indicator; VRBA is selective/differential for coliform colony counts; EMB differentiates lactose-fermenting coliforms with characteristic colonies (e.g., E. coli metallic sheen). In practice, labs may use combinations for presumptive, confirmatory, and completed tests.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map each medium to stage: presumptive (broth), selective plate (VRBA), differential plate (EMB). Confirm that all are standard for coliform work. Choose the inclusive option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Official methods outline multiple acceptable media; selection depends on whether the goal is presence/absence, MPN, or colony counts.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Single-media choices are incomplete; “None” contradicts common laboratory practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a single medium suffices for all food types; fat, acids, or preservatives may require method adjustments.

Final Answer:
All of these.