Used in microbiological testing to detect and differentiate coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli in water, food, and beverage samples. Supports the growth of coliforms while inhibiting non-target organisms. Coliforms appear as pink to red colonies due to enzymatic hydrolysis of chromogenic substrates, while E. coli forms blue colonies with a metallic sheen, allowing for easy identification. Commonly used in environmental monitoring and quality control in drinking water and food production.