An abbreviated scheme for identification of Yersinia enterocolitica isolated from food enrichments on CIN (cefsulodin-irgasan-novobiocin) agar

Abstract

An abbreviated procedure for the biochemical identification of Yersinia enterocolitica isolated from food enrichments on CIN (cefsulodin-irgasan-novobiocin) agar was investigated. A total of 170 colonies resembling Y. enterocolitica in colonial morphology and appearance on CIN agar were selected for identification using API strips. Ninety-three of these isolates were examined with the PathoTec ornithine decarboxylase, Voges-Proskauer, and urease test strips. The PathoTec urease strip alone was adequate for identification of all isolates of Y. enterocolitica. Christensen's urea agar was applied to the remaining 77 isolates and found less specific in the 1 isolate of Enterobacter agglomerans was urease positive along with 10 isolates of Y. enterocolitica. CIN agar is a highly specific medium for isolation of Y. enterocolitica, requiring only Kligler iron agar and urea slants for confirmation of presumptive colonies.