Used in microbiology for the selective isolation and enumeration of gram-negative bacteria, particularly Enterobacteriaceae and coliforms. Inhibits gram-positive organisms through bile salts, supporting the growth of target enteric bacteria while preventing interference. Commonly used in food, water, dairy, and pharmaceutical testing to detect contamination. Glucose serves as the fermentable carbohydrate, allowing detection of acid-producing fermenters via pH indicators, resulting in characteristic violet-red colonies. Facilitates rapid identification and quantification of potential pathogens in various samples.