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Heterotrophs include bacteria, yeasts and molds that require an external source of organic carbon for growth.
The HPC test is widely used to measure the heterotrophic microorganism population in water. Heterotroph levels are a good indicator for an increase in ideal bacterial growth conditions which can lead to pipe corrosion, slime growth, altered water taste, increased need for disinfection, and harbor secondary respiratory pathogens.
This test is useful for piped public water suppliers, bottled water suppliers, water treatment plants, and swimming pools to monitor the levels of heterotrophs in their water.
We are a full service microbiology laboratory that provides testing and analysis services to clients throughout the US. We can assist you in the development of your water safety plan and analyze samples.
Our lab utilizes the pour plate method outlined in Standard Methods for HPC testing. Tempered low nutrient medium is poured into a Petri dish with the sample and then incubated for 48 hours. All colonies are then counted to determine the number of heterotrophs present.
There are no regulations or standards in place that require heterotroph monitoring. Heterotrophs are not considered to be a public health issue. They are considered an indicator for increased and/or additional water treatments. However, the EPA action limit for potable (drinking) water is 500 cfu (colony forming units)/mL. It is important to note that this test is not used instead of coliform testing to determine the presence or absence of pathogens in the water.
This form is for business-related inquiries only. All other inquiries, including personnel-related requests, please contact Scientific Methods customer service at (574)277-4078. For sample analysis, please complete and send the Test Sample Submission Form to customer.service@scientificmethods.com. By filling out this information, you are adhering to our privacy policy.
