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.