LACTIC ACID BACTERIA IN FOOD AND HEALTH: A REVIEW WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ENTEROPATHOGENIC ESCHERICHIA COLI AS WELL AS CERTAIN ENTERIC DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT WITH ANTIBIOTICS AND LACTOBACILLI1

Abstract

Recent literature concerning enteropathogenesis and drug resistance transfer factors in Escherichia coli are summarized as well as related papers concerning the use of antibiotics in animal feed. E. coli infection in swine (colibacillosis) also is considered, especially citations indicating the similarity between the disease in man and animals. The role of intestinal bacteria in human health is reviewed, emphasizing the importance of (a) a maintained balance of organisms in the adult, (b) breast feeding in infants to establish a large population of bifidobacteria and (c) the presence of Lactobacillus organisms to maintain healthful conditions in the human vagina. The use of Lactobacillus organisms in intestinal and vaginal disease therapy is reviewed as well as the important ecological role that lactic acid bacteria play in the natural scheme where man is concerned.