Determination of fatty acid compositions of Bacillus cereus and related bacteria: a rapid gas chromatographic method using a glass capillary column

A rapid gas chromatographic method for the determination of fatty acid compositions of Bacillus cereus and related bacteria is presented. By the use of a free fatty acid phase-coated glass capillary column, the complete separation of fatty acids, including the branched ones, was achieved. The method enables a more distinct differentiation of Bacillus species than can be obtained with packed columns.