Used in microbiology for the selective isolation and enumeration of coliforms and Escherichia coli from water, food, and environmental samples. It supports the differentiation of these organisms based on their ability to ferment lactose and produce gas. The medium inhibits the growth of gram-positive bacteria and non-coliform gram-negative organisms, allowing selective growth of target bacteria. Commonly used in water quality testing and food safety analysis to assess microbial contamination.