How it works
AquaVial COLI is the foundational ExactBlue coliform vial — chromogenic β-galactosidase chemistry that turns color when coliform bacteria are present. Same reaction as EX Coliform but tuned for cost-effective routine screening at 1 CFU/mL.
Collect 5 mL water sample
Incubate
Incubate at recommended temperature for the specified time
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
Cheapest CFU/mL across the catalogue ($2.75/test distributor). Replaces routine MPN tube cultures for surface / waste water screening.
Detection chemistry
How it detects
β-galactosidase
Detects coliforms through enzyme-mediated color change. Galactosidase activity hydrolyzes the chromogenic substrate, producing a visible color shift proportional to bacterial concentration.
Regulatory & standards
Compliance references
- ISO 9001:2015 QMS
- Standard Methods 9221 reference
