**2.6.2 The most probable number method**

Diluted homogenous solutions of samples taken from those parts that are edible were prepared with 0.1% buffered peptone water: 10:100 for the *E. coli* total coliform and fecal coliform analyses. Sample dilutions of 10–1, 10–2, and 10–3 with buffered peptone water were transferred to three series of test tubes, each containing 10 mL of Modified Lauryl Sulphate Triptose Broth.

Analyses were done according to the three tube most probable number method (MPN) using Brilliant green bile broth (BGLB), EC broth, Eosin methylene blue agar medium, Plate count agar medium (FDA, 1998).

For characterization of coliform, Endo agar was used.
