The mannose fermentation test is based on the fermentation ability of mannose which results in the production of acid as end product, the pH of the liquid basal medium will drop and an indicator change the color to red. Some organisms produce additional CO₂ gas which can be made visible with a Durham’s tube. Mannose can be used to differentiate Enterobacteriaceae and other organisms.

Mannose Discs are recommended to detect mannose fermenting bacteria in food and environmental samples. They find their application in various sectors such as the food and dairy industry, water industry, pharmaceutical laboratory testing, cosmetic industry, environmental and sanitary testing, clinical diagnostic, etc.