Bacteria: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Blythe Copeland
Living / Green Food
January 20, 2011

With so many products -- from hand soap to dish detergent -- boasting about their antibacterial properties, it's easy to think that all bacteria are bad for you.

But the world of bacteria isn't so black and white: some bacteria help, some hurt, and some make vinegar. The 10 bacteria here are a few of the most famous -- in bright, bold color.

Streptococcus

The streptococcus group comprises many different bacteria with a host of effects -- members of this group are responsible for diseases including strep throat, meningitis, scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, and impetigo, but are also key to the holey production of Swiss cheese.