A rapid and simple method for the detection and enumeration of Escherichia coli in cleansed shellfish

A multiple-tube technique based on peptone water incubated at 44 degrees C for 24 h followed by detection of indole was found to be sensitive and specific for the detection of Escherichia coli in oysters and mussels. The method has the advantage of providing rapid results and is both less expensive and less time-consuming than other MPN techniques.