Abstract: A detection system for anaerobic micro-organisms involves the addition to a nutrient medium for the micro-organisms of an indicator species which is electrochemically reducible, soluble in the nutrient medium and consumed by the micro-organisms during growth. Two electrodes are immersed in the nutrient medium and changes in an electrical property of the nutrient medium are monitored. A preferred indicator species is riboflavin.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting micro-organisms comprises a sample container releasably received in a container-mounting member which comprises a spillage containment vessel. The sample container has secured to its base a socket member which nests with the inner surface of the spillage containment vessel. Spillage detection means comprises a pair of electrical probes in the base of the vessel.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in detecting micro-organisms in any one of a plurality of samples of a liquid, such as a food or drink product, e.g. for control of production, comprises a plurality of containers (11) for the sample and a container-mounting member (10) to receive and locate each of the containers, each container being provided with a first electrode of a noble metal (16) and a second electrode, which may be constituted by the body of the container (11), insulated from the first and of a different metal. The container-mounting member (10) is provided with separate contacts (12) and leads for each of the noble metal electrodes (16) and with contacts (922) connected to a common lead for each of the second electrodes.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting micro-organisms comprises a rack having an array of stations at which a plurality of microbiological sample containers can be received. Each container is provided with an electrode or electrodes at its base for connection with electrical contacts on the base of the rack, and container retention means in the form of a cap with a bayonet joint or screw-threaded connection for releasably retaining the containers in the rack are adapted to be operable from above the upper support plate of the rack.

Abstract: For use in detecting micro-organisms in a sample of a substance, a container for holding the sample consists of a glass bottle and closure in the form of an elastomeric bung, the bung being provided with a pair of chambers each housing a respective electrode until the container is required for use, when the electrodes are urged upwardly, breaking through a membrane of the bung to bring the electrodes into contact with the test sample in the bottle.