Escherichia coli, commonly referred to as E. coli, is a type of bacterium that resides in the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms. Most strains are not pathogenic, but some, like E. coli O157:H7, could cause severe foodborne illnesses. The pathogenic strains are commonly recognized to cause symptoms that range from abdominal cramps to life-threatening conditions, such as hemolytic uraemic syndrome, especially in young children and the elderly.

Water Quality: The kit is also used to monitor water quality. By measuring the content of E. coli, it ensures that water bodies are safe for drinking and other purposes, thus saving the integrity of our drinking water supply.