Starch SM Agar is recommended for the detection of spores in heated milk and milk products. Starch Milk Agar is used for the detection of spores in heated milk and milk products. It helps in the demonstration of starch hydrolysis and proteolytic activity of spore producing organisms in milk and milk products. Proteolytic bacteria will be surrounded by a clear zone, due to the conversion of casein into soluble nitrogenous compounds