How it works
AquaVial EX E. coli uses a chromogenic β-glucuronidase substrate (MUG-style chemistry) that is specific to E. coli — it does NOT trigger on generic coliforms. A visible color change in the vial confirms E. coli presence. Sensitivity scales from 1 CFU/mL standard to 1 CFU/100 mL with the Very Sensitive amplification kit.
Collect 1-5 mL water sample for testing and add it to test vial
Incubate
Break the ampoule and wait 15 minutes for color change
Read result by visible color change; act on positive results
Sensitivity matrix
Detection limits
Comparison
vs. traditional lab testing
Membrane filtration lab culture (ISO 9308-1 / Standard Methods 9221)
Off-site, multi-day turnaround. Requires lab account, membrane filtration manifold, and qualified microbiology technician. Per-test cost from $40–$120 plus shipping.
On-site, same-day result
On-site, no sample shipping. Result in hours, not the 24-48h+ lab turnaround. No incubator or microbiology lab required for standalone kits.
Detection chemistry
How it detects
β-glucuronidase
Selective for E. coli via β-glucuronidase activity. The enzyme cleaves a fluorogenic/chromogenic substrate to produce a distinctive color change.
Regulatory & standards
Compliance references
- ISO 9308-1:2014
