Abstract: A safe, disposable test kit apparatus for the detection of pathogens in a test sample, such as coliform bacteria and E. coli. The apparatus comprises a transparent plastic bag divided into a sample compartment to receive a test sample such as water and a media compartment having a powdered growth medium with an indicator for the pathogens. The test kit apparatus includes a sanitizer compound or composition in a separate compartment to be introduced into the sample and media compartment after incubation and reading of the test results to provide for the total deactivation of the pathogen grown on the media after incubation thereby permitting the safe disposal of the plastic bag with the ingredients therein.

Abstract: An automatic test apparatus for use in a test method to determine antimicrobial drugs. The test apparatus comprises a first aluminum, electrically heatable block with holes for the insertion of test containers and a separate, second cooling aluminum block adapted to be placed periodically in contact with the heated aluminum block to cool rapidly the heated block. The test apparatus includes timed signals existing therein to alert the test user. The test apparatus is adapted to provide for the timed sequential solid heating and cooling of one or more test containers containing a test sample.

Abstract: A test kit and method for the detection of antimicrobial drugs at low concentrations in a sample in a test container, such as milk, which includes a Bacillus stearothermophilus (BST) tablet and a medium tablet with nutrients to stress the BST and, optionally, a pH indicator. The method comprises preheating a test sample to destroy natural inhibitors, cooling the sample, adding a BST tablet, rapidly heating to effect synchronization of BST germination, adding a medium tablet, incubating and detecting the presence or absence of the antimicrobial drug. The test apparatus includes optionally a test apparatus for the controlled, sequenced heating and cooling of the test sample.