Enterolert-DW

Detects enterococci in drinking water

   

The Enterolert-DW Test, coupled with the Quanti-Tray system, provides:

  • More accurate and specific compared to ISO 7899-2 and MoDW 2006, part 5.
  • Confirmed results in 24 hours.
  • Same easy-to-use platform as the Colilert-18 Test.

Description

Overview

Easy
  • Ready-to-use media.
  • Simple procedure.
  • Most Probable Number (MPN) enumeration.
  • Unit-dosed packaging eliminates media preparation.
  • Reagent contains no toxic compounds.
Rapid
  • Confirmed results in 24 hours.
  • Simplified quality control.
  • Less than 1 minute of hands-on time.
Accurate
  • More accurate when compared to ISO 7899-2 on all samples.
  • More accurate when compared to Microbiology of Drinking Water (MoDW) 2006, part 5, on chlorine-stressed samples.
  • Liquid enrichment ensures optimized recovery.
  • Eliminates subjective interpretation of results determined by traditional methods.

Science

How the Enterolert-DW Test works

The Enterolert-DW Test uses a Defined Substrate Technology (DST) nutrient indicator to detect enterococci. When coupled with the IDEXX Quanti-Tray System, the Enterolert-DW Test provides quantitative confirmed results in 24 hours. The Enterolert-DW Test utilizes ortho-nitrophenyl-β-D-glucoside as a nutrient indicator and incorporates a specifically designed blue background color in its formulation. When the enzyme substrate is metabolized by enterococci, the sample turns from blue to green to indicate detection. Any change from the original color to green is considered a positive result. No ultraviolet light source is required.

How to use

Quantification


Step 1

Add reagent to sample. Cap vessel and shake to mix.

Step 2

Add sample reagent to Quanti-Tray (counts from 1–200) or Quanti-Tray/2000 (counts from 1–2,419).

Step 3

Seal using Quanti-Tray Sealer and incubate for 24 hours at 41°C ± 0.5°C.

Step 4

Count positive wells and refer to most probable number (MPN) table.

Frequently asked questions

How does the product work?

The Enterolert-DW Test is designed to detect Enterococcusspecies in drinking water samples. It is based on IDEXX’s proprietary Defined Substrate Technology (DST). The Enterolert-DW Test utilizes ortho-nitrophenyl-ß-D-glucoside as a nutrient indicator and incorporates a specifically designed blue background color in its formulation. When the enzyme substrate is metabolized by the enterococci, the sample turns from blue to green to indicate a positive detection. Any change from the original color to green is considered a positive result. No ultraviolet light source is required.

What species of enterococci can the Enterolert-DW test detect?

The Enterolert-DW Test is designed to detect enterococci in drinking water. As with any microbial method, some Enterococcus species are more easily detected than others. Some examples of Enterococcus species we have detected in trials and studies are:

Enterococcus faecalis
Enterococcus faecium
Enterococcus hirae
Enterococcus gallinarum
Enterococcus casseliflavus
Enterococcus durans
Enterococcus avium

Is there a comparator for the Enterolert-DW Test?

There is no comparator for the Enterolert-DW Test. For comparison, use a negative control when interpreting results.

What is the incubation time and temperature of the Enterolert-DW Test?

The Enterolert-DW Test is incubated at 41°C ± 0.5°C for 24 hours and the results are valid up to 28 hours, unless your local regulations indicate differently.

Are results valid prior to 24 hours?

Yes, if they are positive. An inoculated Enterolert-DW Test sample that is positive for enterococci before 24 hours is a confirmed positive test for enterococci.

Are results valid after 28 hours?

Yes, if they are negative. If an inoculated Enterolert-DW Test sample is inadvertently incubated over 28 hours, lack of green color is a valid negative test; a green color after the 28 hours is not valid and should be repeated or verified

Can either the 51-well or the 97-well Quanti-Tray be used with the Enterolert-DW Test?

Yes, both the Quanti-Tray and Quanti-Tray/2000 can be used with the Enterolert-DW Test.

Which vessels should I use with the Enterolert-DW Test?

Because the Enterolert-DW Test is used with the Quanti-Tray system, any sterile vessel can be used.

What are the recommended storage conditions for the Enterolert-DW Test?

What normal color change should take place with the Enterolert-DW Test?

When the enzyme substrate is metabolized by the enterococci, the sample turns from blue to green to indicate a positive result. Any change from the original color to green is considered a positive result.

What water types can the product be used on/what water type is the product designed to be used for?

The Enterolert-DW Test is designed specifically for drinking water testing. Extensive studies were performed on enterococci stressed by chlorine, to mimic the impact of water treatment.

Can the Enterolert-DW Test be used on water types other than drinking water?

The Enterolert-DW Test may be used for other water types. Before implementing testing, IDEXX recommends you use a typical laboratory validation protocol to assure that any other water types will work with this product before implementation.

What color and consistency should the the Enterolert-DW reagent powder be?

The Enterolert-DW reagent powder should be white to off-white in color with a slight greenish tint; it should be dry and free-flowing. Any concerns about the color or integrity of the reagent powder should be directed to IDEXX Technical Support.