LACTOSE GELATIN MEDIUM, MODIFIED (AOAC)

Description

Members of the genus Clostridium are distributed widely in nature and are found in soil as well as in fresh water and marine water sediments throughout the world. Clostridial species are one of the major causes of food poisoning / gastrointestinal illnesses. They are gram-positive, spore-forming rods that occur naturally in soil. Among the family are: Clostridium botulinum, which produces one of the most potent toxins in existence; Clostridium tetani, causative agent of tetanus; and Clostridium perfringens, commonly found in wound infections and diarrhea cases. The use of toxins to damage the host is a method deployed by many bacterial pathogens including Clostridium. Lactose Gelatin Medium, Modified is prepared in accordance with AOAC and a slight modification of this medium is recommended by APHA for detection of Clostridium perfringens in foods.