What do enzymatic processes refer to in the context of coliform testing?

Enzymatic processes in the context of coliform testing refer to biochemical processes that utilize enzymes to facilitate the detection of coliform bacteria. These processes typically involve the breakdown of lactose by coliforms, leading to the production of by-products that can be measured or indicate a color change. This biochemical activity is crucial because coliform testing is aimed at identifying the presence of these bacteria, which can indicate potential contamination and public health concerns. The use of specific substrates in the testing media allows for the selective identification of coliforms based on their enzymatic capabilities, thus underscoring the importance of biochemical processes in this context. By harnessing the specificity of enzymatic reactions, testers can accurately determine water quality and safety standards regarding microbial contaminants.