P090

  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of Actinomyces spp. from clinical specimens. It is based on Fastidious Anaerobe Agar that has been enriched with 7% defibrinated horse blood and made selective by the addition of nalidixic acid to inhibit most aerobes (particularly Gram-negative bacilli) and metronidazole to suppress other anaerobes.
  • This is a 25ml fill selective medium for the isolation of Actinomyces spp from clinical specimens. Based on Fastidious Anaerobe Agar enriched with 7% Horse Blood, the medium has been made selective by the inclusion of Nalidixic Acid to inhibit most aerobes, particularly gram-negative bacilli, and Metronidazole to suppress other anaerobes.
  • Bacillius cereus Selective Agar (PEMBA) This is a medium for the selective isolation and enumeration of Bacillus cereus in food samples. It is said to be particularly suitable for the detection of small numbers of Bacillus cereus particularly in the presence of other contaminating organisms. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Polymixin and Sodium Pyruvate is also present which is said to improve Egg Yolk precipitation and enhance sporulation. As Bacillus cereus is Mannitol Negative the colonies are bluish in colour, due to the presence of the Bromothymol Blue Indicator, with a surrounding precipitate of the same colour due to Lecithinase production (from the Egg Yolk). NB:  It should be noted that some Proteus spp. and gram positive cocci may grow on this medium.
  • Bacillus Cereus (Mannitol Egg Yolk Polymixin - MYP) Agar Intended for the selective enumeration of Bacillus cereus in food samples the medium uses two reactions (Mannitol fermentation and Lecithinase production) to differentiate Bacillus cereus from other members of the species. As Bacillus cereus is Mannitol Negative the colonies are pink in colour due to the presence of Phenol Red Indicator. Lecithinase production (from the Egg Yolk) is indicated by a white precipitate around the colonies. Polymixin is added as the selective agent to inhibit coliforms. NB: It should be noted that some Proteus spp and gram positive cocci may grow on this medium.
  • Bile Aesculin Agar Bile Aesculin Medium is generally used for the differentiation and presumptive identification of Group D streptococci (enterococci). Enterococci hydrolyse aesculin forming, amongst other products, aesculetin which in turn combines with Ferric ammonium citrate producing a dark brown or black complex. The presence of Bile salts in the medium inhibits gram positive organisms other than enterococci. The medium can also be used for the presumptive identification of certain organisms within the Enterobacteriaceae group such as Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., etc.
  • A general-purpose medium enriched with 7% Horse Blood, suitable for the isolation of most organisms including many fastidious anaerobes of clinical significance.
  • A general purpose medium enriched with 5% Defibrinated Sheep Blood, suitable for the isolation of most organisms including many fastidious anaerobes.
  • Brazier's CCEY Agar with 1% Lysed Horse Blood - Blood, Cycloserine, Cefoxitin, 4% Egg Yolk Emulsion Based on Fastidious Anaerobe Agar, Cholic Acid and p-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid are added to enhance the isolation and differentiation of Clostridium difficile from clinical specimens. Cholic Acid promotes spore germination and p- Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid enhances production of p-cresol, a distinctive metabolite of Clostridium difficile. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Cefoxitin and D-Cycloserine and Egg Yolk emulsion is added to differentiate Clostridium difficile from the Lecithinase producing clostridia. Lysed Blood is also added which optimises the colony fluorescence when cultures are examined under UV light.
  • This medium is intended for use in the isolation of Salmonella spp, other than Salmonella typhi. Although it can be used as a primary isolation medium, it is not recommended for this purpouse and is generally used for subculture from selective enrichment media. It should be noted that the medium is highly selective and therefore not suited to the isolation of salmonella from samples where numbers may be low. NB: - It is not recommended that this medium is used for the isolation of Salmonella typhi and Shigella spp.
  • Brilliant Green Agar This medium is intended for use in the isolation of Salmonellae other than Salmonella typhi. Although it can be used as a primary isolation medium it is not recommended for this purpose and is generally used for subculture from selective enrichment media. It should be noted that the medium is highly selective and therefore not suited to the isolation of Salmonella from samples where the numbers may be low. NB:  It is not recommended that this medium be used for the isolation of Salmonella typhi and Shigella spp.
  • Brucella Agar is a non-selective medium that is enriched with peptones, 5% sheep blood, haemin and vitamin K to support the growth of fastidious, slow growing, obligately anaerobic micro-organisms.
  • Brucella agar is an enriched non-selective medium that supports the growth of fastidious and slow growing, obligately anaerobic micro-organisms due to its content of peptones, dextrose and yeast extract. The medium is supplemented with sheep blood, haemin and vitamin K which provide essential nutrients for certain anaerobes.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of Burkholderia cepacia. The base contains Bile Salts and Crystal Violet as selective agents and Ticarcillin and Polymixin B are added as additional supplements to further improve the selectivity particularly inhibition of most Pseudomonas spp.
  • This medium is designed for the selective isolation of Campylobacter spp., particularly C. jejuni and C. coli , which are major causes of gastrointestinal infection. Campylobacter Blood Free Agar CCDA was formulated to allow replacement of blood with a combination of charcoal, ferrous sulphate, and sodium pyruvate. Selectivity is achieved through the addition of broad spectrum cefoperazone and amphotericin B to inhibit fungi. Inoculated plates are incubated at 41.5°C to improve growth of the thermophilic species including C. jejuni and C. coli. Campylobacter Blood Free Agar CCDA is recommended for food testing in compliance with the requirements of ISO 10272- 1:2017(1) . It can also be used for isolation of Campylobacter spp. from clincal specimens such as faeces(2,3). 1. ISO 10272-1:2017. Microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs – Horizontal method for detection and enumeration of Campylobacter spp. – Part 1: Detection method. 2. Public Health England. (2014). Investigations of Faecal Specimens for Enteric Pathogens. UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations. B 30 Issue 8.1. 3. Public Health England. (2018). Identification of Campylobacter species. UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations. ID 23 Issue 3.1.
  • Campylobacter Blood Free CCDA Agar One of several media formulations available for the selective isolation of Campylobacter spp., primarily C.jejuni and C.coli, which are the leading cause of enteric illness in the UK. Campylobacter spp. can cause mild to severe diarrhoea, usually self-limiting, but some specific serotypes can trigger acute post-infective conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system, such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Campylobacter Blood-Free Selective Medium (CCDA) was first described by Bolton. This medium was formulated to replace blood with a combination of charcoal, ferrous sulphate, and sodium pyruvate. Also, in order to improve selectivity, Cefoperazone replaced the Cephazolin utilised in the original formulation. Bolton recommended incubating inoculated plates at 37°C to improve isolation rates but incubation at 41.5°C is recommended for the isolation of the commonly encountered thermophilic species (C.jejuni & C.coli). Yeast and fungal contaminants can be suppressed with the addition of Amphotericin B. Campylobacter Blood-Free Selective Medium (CCDA) is recommended for food testing. Campylobacter Blood-Free Selective Medium with the addition of Yeast Extract and Cefoperazone is used in the Isolation of Campylobacter species from foodstuffs and swabs in the FDA/BAM Method. The product complies with the requirements of ISO 10272-1:2006.
  • Campylobacter Selective Agar Preston Supplement This is one of several selective media available for the isolation of Campylobacter spp in clinical, food and environmental laboratories. The medium is enriched with Lysed Horse Blood and made selective by the inclusion of Cefoperazone, to suppress other enteric organisms, and Amphotericin to suppress yeast & fungal growth.
  • Campylobacter Selective (Skirrow) Agar This is one of several selective media available for the isolation of Campylobacter spp in clinical, food and environmental laboratories. Based on Columbia Agar enriched with Lysed Horse Blood. Polymyxin B, Trimethoprim & Vancomycin are added as the selective agents. Sodium Thiosulphate, Pyruvic Acid and Ferrous Sulphate are also included to enhance the aerotolerance of Campylobacter spp. NB: This medium should be incubated at 42°C to optimise selectivity.
  • Cetrimide Agar is intended primarily for use in the isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from pharmaceutical products and is recommended by the United States Pharmacopoeia for this purpose. The medium is made selective by the addition of cetrimide to inhibit the growth of most other organisms while allowing Pseudomonas aeruginosa/ and other Pseudomonas spp. to develop a classical colonial appearance, producing green pigmentation and fluoresce when examined under ultra violet light.
  • This is a medium intended for the cultivation and isolation of Bordetella pertussis & Haemophilus spp. The base medium contains Charcoal and is enriched with 10% Horse Blood. It can also be used as a maintenance or transport medium for these organisms.
  • Charcoal Agar with 10% Horse Blood & Cephalexin This is one of two media generally used for the selective isolation of Bordetella pertussis. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Cephalexin, to suppress the unwanted naso-pharyngeal flora often present in specimens submitted for the isolation of Bordetella pertussis, and further enriched with 10% Horse Blood. NB: Although coliforms are inhibited by this medium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and some fungi will grow.
  • A highly nutritious medium used for the isolation and cultivation of fastidious microorganisms, especially Neisseria and Haemophillus species from a variety of clinical specimens. The media is further enriched with Suplex (Polyvitex) that provides vitamins, amino acids, co-enzymes, glucose and other factors which improve the growth of Neisseria and Haemophillus species.
  • A highly nutritious medium enriched with Horse Blood, where the blood has been “chocolated” by heating the medium to 60°C. Suitable for the isolation of most pathogens including the most fastidious and is particularly useful for the cultivation of Haemophilus spp. and Neisseria spp.
  • CHROMagar™ Candida Plus is the first chromogenic isolation medium for the detection and differentiation of C. auris in addition to other major clinical Candida spp. such as C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata. Candida spp. are yeasts involved in various infections called Candidiasis. These infections can be severe with significant morbidity in nosocomial infections or in immunocompromised patients. Although C. albicans is still the main species involved, the use of antifungal agents has given rise to other species such as C. tropicalis, C. krusei and C. glabrata. In 2016, WHO added C. auris to this list with over 90 % of strains resistant to fluconazole. CHROMagar™ Candida Plus allows for the recognition of minor candida species in a mixed population containing the predominant species, thereby allowing patient specific treatment plans to be formulated at the earliest possible opportunity. Most bacterial species will be inhibited due to the inclusion of the selective mix: C. albicans Green colonies C. tropicalis Metallic blue colonies C. glabrata Mauve to pink colonies C. auris Light blue colonies with blue halo E. coli Inhibited Limitations The final identification must be confirmed by biochemical tests or by mass spectrophotometry (eg MALDI-TOF). These can be done directly from the suspicious colonies observed on the medium.
  • PP0080

    CLED Agar

    CLED Agar Mackey and Sandy’s formulation this medium is popular for Urine Culture in the clinical laboratory. The lack of electrolytes inhibits the spreading of Proteus spp. and Bromothymol Blue indicator allows easy differentiation of Lactose and Non-Lactose fermenting organisms. Cystine is also present to benefit those organisms that have a particular Cystine requirement. Streptococcus pyogenes and many other fastidious organisms that do not require the presence of blood can grow on this medium.
  • CLED Agar (Bevis) A modification by Bevis of the original CLED medium of Mackey & Sandys. This formulation uses a double indicator system (Andrade’s (Acid fuchsin) and Bromothymol blue) to improve differentiation of Lactose and Non-lactose fermenting organisms. The lack of Sodium Chloride also prevents the swarming of Proteus spp.
  • Colorex 0157 with Cefixime & Tellurite This medium replaces the conventional Sorbitol MacConkey Agar that is reputed for high levels of false positives and the difficulty of colonial interpretation and differentiation. Colorex O157 is a chromogenic medium with a very high specificity (98% according to K.A. Bettelheim, 1998 J.Appl.Microbiol.85:425-428) for E.coli O157. To reduce the level of background flora, the medium is made selective by the addition of Cefixime and Potassium tellurite. Positive colonies exhibit a mauve colouration enabling easy interpretation amongst blue or colourless colonies of other bacteria.
  • PP3038

    Colorex STEC

    COLOREX™ STEC is a chromogenic medium(1) for the detection of enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (including serotypes O26, O111 & O157). Over the past few years there has been an increase in the number of food poisoning outbreaks where non-O157 Shiga toxin producing E. coli (STEC) have been shown to be etiological agent. The medium contains several selective agents to reduce the level of background flora from the specimen or food sample. Positive STEC colonies exhibit a mauve colouration enabling easy interpretation amongst other Gram negative bacteria that will exhibit blue or colourless colonies, if they are able to grow on the medium. Gram positive bacteria will be inhibited.
  • Colorex™Acinetobacter MDR is a chromogenic medium for the detection of multi-drug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter spp. Positive colonies exhibit a distinct red colouration with a pale grey centre enabling easy interpretation amongst blue, violet or colourless colonies that may be produced by other Gram –ve bacteria. Gram +ve bacteria and yeast are inhibited on this medium. Limitations: 1.  Some Pseudomonas, Stenotrophomonas and Burkholderia spp. may form pale red colonies on this medium but are readily distinguishable due to differences in colonial morphology compared to the Acinetobacter spp. An oxidase test will readily differentiate any Pseudomonas spp. 2. Some Enterobacteriaceae isolates may form blue colonies on this medium. 3. Definitive MDR characterisation may require additional antibiotic susceptibility testing.
  • Chromogenic medium for detection of Clostridium difficile. Clostridium difficile (C.difficile) is the leading cause of nosocomial infectious diarrheoa in adults. These infections occur mostly in patients who have both medical care and antibiotic treatment and have become more frequent and more difficult to treat in the last years due to the emergence of highly toxigenic C.difficile strains. Although PCR has become the leading C.difficile detection technique, culture is essential for strain typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. CHROMagarTM C.difficile is a new fluorogenic culture medium, extremely sensitive and selective, especially designed to simplify and speed up (24h) the culture of C.difficile.
  • Colorex C3GR is a chromogenic screening medium for the detection of β-Lactamase producing Gram-negative bacteria in clinical specimens. The selectivity of the medium allows for detection of ESBL and/or AmpC producing isolates that exhibit a reduced susceptibility to 3rd generation cephalosporin antibiotics. The chromogenic reactions allow for species differentiation on presumptive positive isolates.  
  • Colorex™ Campylobacter is a chromogenic media for the isolation and presumptive identification of Campylobacter spp, from clinical specimens and food samples. Any presumptive Campylobacter colonies will produce a red colouration whilst most other organisms will be inhibited. Typical colour reactions are as follows – Campylobacter jejuni – Red colonies; Campylobacter coli – Red colonies; Campylobacter lari – Red colonies; Other Gram –ve bacteria – Blue colonies or inhibited; Gram +ve bacteria & yeasts – Inhibited. Presumptive positive Campylobacter colonies must be confirmed using serological and biochemical techniques according to the method / procedure being followed.
  • In recent years there has been an increase in the number of immuno-compromised patients, which has in turn led to an increased rate of infections associated with Candida species. There were 2151 reported cases of candidaemia in 2016 with C.albicans accounting for 42%, C.glabrata for 25%, C.parapsilosis for 9% and C.tropicalis for 3% of infections in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.(1) COLOREX™ Candida was formulated specifically for the detection and isolation of clinically significant Candida spp. by means of colonial colour and morphology within 48hrs. COLOREX™ Candida allows for the recognition of a minor Candida population within a mixed population as well as the pre-dominant species thereby allowing for a patient specific treatment plan at the earliest possible opportunity. Most bacterial species will be inhibited due to the inclusion of chloramphenicol. C.albicans – Green colonies C.tropicalis – Metallic blue colonies C.glabrata – Mauve to pink colonies C.krusei – Large fuzzy pink colonies Limitations Definitive identification requires additional testing of isolates (e.g. MALDI-TOF). C.glabrata and C.parapsilosis cannot be readily distinguished on this particular medium. C.dubliniensis will form dark green colonies on COLOREX™ Candida so additional testing is required to confirm presence in the specimen. C.auris isolates will grow on this medium but the colony colour may vary from white to pale purple/pink so further testing will be required to confirm identification.
  • Recent developments in culture media have given rise to the use of chromogenic substrates as a means of differentiating bacteria particularly among the Enterobacteriaceae. Colorex™ ESBL (Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase) medium has been developed for the isolation of ESBL – producing organisms with the aim of simplifying the differentiation and presumptive identification of the causative organism. It should be noted that other non-ESBL and AmpC isolates will be inhibited on this medium reducing the incidence of false positives. The distinctive colonial colouration of the various species can reduce the need for additional follow up testing allowing many positive results to be issued within 24 hours of receipt of the sample. If necessary an Indole test for confirmation of Escherichia coli and TDA test for Proteus spp. can be performed directly from the medium. Typical colour reactions are as follows: Escherichia coli – Red colonies; Proteus spp., Providencia spp. & Morganella spp. – Clear colonies with a brown halo; Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp, Serratia spp. & Citrobacter spp. – Metallic blue colonies; Salmonella spp. & Acinetobacter spp. – Clear colonies; Gram +ve bacterial species and yeasts – Inhibited.
  • Recent developments in culture media have given rise to the use of chromogenic substrates as a means of differentiating bacteria. This is one such medium and is a selective medium for the isolation and presumptive identification of Listeria monocytogenes from clinical and food samples. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Lithium chloride, Ceftazidime, Polymixin B, Nalidixic acid (to suppress other bacteria) and Amphotericin B (to suppress yeasts and fungi). With the combination of both the chromogenic substrate and phospholipase C enzyme reactions, it is possible to differentiate L.monocytogenes from other Listeria spp. Users should be aware that some strains of L.ivanovii are capable of producing an opaque halo, highlighting the need to confirm presumptively identified colonies.
  • This is a selective chromogenic medium for the detection of Malassezia spp., especially M.restricta and M.globosa, in veterinary or clinical specimens. Malassezia spp. is a commensal organism in humans and animals that can cause severe dermatitis or otitis infections. The medium is supplemented with Glycerol and Tween 40 to enhance the in-vitro growth of Malassezia spp. due to the complex lipid requirements of these yeasts. Appearance and differentiation of Malassezia spp. is readily apparent by the distinctive colonial colours allowing for differentiation from Candida spp. in specimens. The inclusion of chloramphenicol ensures the inhibition of bacterial species during incubation of specimens.
  • Colorex™ MRSA is a chromogenic medium for the selective isolation of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The medium can be used for the routine screening of clinical specimens for MRSA from a variety of sampling sites such as the nose, throat and groin. The medium incorporates a nutritious peptone base medium and a number of selective agents to inhibit most Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as yeasts and moulds. The chromogenic detection of specific enzyme activity leads to the formation of pink/mauve colonies indicating MRSA (including low level resistant and hetero-resistant strains) following incubation at 37°C for 18-24 hours. Other organisms, if present are indicated by blue or colourless colonies. Any presumptive isolates must be confirmed using serological and/or biochemical techniques available to the laboratory. The use of this chromogenic medium does not diminish the requirement for conventional antimicrobial susceptibility tests for the confirmation of methicillin resistance. Limitations: 1. S.aureus strains that possess a low MIC to the selective agent present in the medium but are mec A negative may form colonies on the medium. 2. Some MRSA strains may form typical colonies surrounded by a matte halo. The formation of the halo serves no diagnostic function. 3. Certain methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) may produce characteristic colonies. In some cases differentiation may be achieved by examination of the colour of these colonies, as they may be considerably darker in colour (bluish purple to a very dark pink/magenta). 4. Certain bacterial species other than staphylococci may produce colonies with a characteristic colour.
  • Colorex™ MRSA is a chromogenic medium for the selective isolation of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The medium can be used for the routine screening of clinical specimens for MRSA from a variety of sampling sites such as the nose, throat and groin. The medium incorporates a nutritious peptone base medium and a number of selective agents to inhibit most Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as yeasts and moulds. The chromogenic detection of specific enzyme activity leads to the formation of pink/mauve colonies indicating MRSA (including low level resistant and hetero-resistant strains) following incubation at 37°C for 18-24 hours. Other organisms, if present are indicated by blue or colourless colonies. Any presumptive isolates must be confirmed using serological and/or biochemical techniques available to the laboratory. The use of this chromogenic medium does not diminish the requirement for conventional antimicrobial susceptibility tests for the confirmation of methicillin resistance. Limitations: 1.  S.aureus strains that possess a low MIC to the selective agent present in the medium but are mec A negative may form colonies on the medium. 2. Some MRSA strains may form typical colonies surrounded by a matte halo. The formation of the halo serves no diagnostic function. 3. Certain methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) may produce characteristic colonies. In some cases differentiation may be achieved by examination of the colour of these colonies, as they may be considerably darker in colour (bluish purple to a very dark pink/magenta). 4. Certain bacterial species other than staphylococci may produce colonies with a characteristic colour.
  • Colorex™ mSuperCARBA™ is a selective chromogenic medium that has been developed for the detection and isolation of carbapenemase producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE). Nosocomial infections due to CPE are particularly difficult due to the limited treatment options. Therefore, this medium is designed to simplify the detection of CPE carriers and to allow for improved monitoring of high risk patient groups. The distinctive colonial colouration of the various species can reduce the need for additional follow up testing allowing many positive results to be issued within 24 hours of receipt of the sample. All presumptive positive colonies should be confirmed for carbapenemase production. Typical colour reactions are as follows: Escherichia coli – Red/Pink colonies; Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., & Citrobacter spp. – Metallic blue colonies; Other Gram –ve CPE – Colourless colonies; Carbapenem sensitive bacterial species, Gram +ve bacterial species & yeasts – Inhibited.
  • Recent developments in culture media have given rise to the use of chromogenic substrates as a means of differentiating bacteria particularly among the coliform group of organisms. Colorex™ UTI has been developed primarily for use in the examination of urine specimens with the aim of simplifying the differentiation and presumptive identification of the main organisms, gram negative and gram positive, usually found in Urinary Tract Infections. It can however be used to differentiate organisms in other types of clinical specimens. The distinctive colonial colouration of the various species can reduce the need for additional follow up testing allowing many positive results to be issued within 24 hours of receipt of the sample. If necessary an Indole test for confirmation of Escherichia coli and TDA test for Proteus spp. can be performed directly from the medium.
  • Colorex™ Salmonella Plus is a chromogenic media for the isolation and presumptive identification of Salmonella spp, S typhi, S.paratyphi and lactose positive Salmonella from foodstuffs. Any presumptive Salmonella spp. will produce a mauve colouration; other organisms will be blue or colourless in appearance. Cefsulodin is added as a selective agent to inhibit the growth of Pseudomonas and Aeromonas species. Any presumptive isolates must be confirmed using serological and biochemical techniques available to the laboratory. This product meets the requirements of ISO 6579:2002 standard.
  • This is a chromogenic medium for the isolation and presumptive identification of Staphylococcus aureus. Mauve colonies indicate Staph aureus following incubation (18 – 24 hours) at 37°C, other organisms, if not inhibited, are indicated by blue or colourless colonies. Studies have suggested that this media has a specificity and sensitivity of 99.4% and 95.5% respectively (Gaillot et al 2000).
  • About a quarter of pregnant women in the UK are estimated to carry Streptococcus agalactiae. As a result of this, babies become colonized with Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) during labour and birth; the vast majority are unaffected by this colonization, however, a small percentage become infected with conditions such as eye infections, pneumonia, septicaemia or meningitis. Colorex™ StrepB Agar is a chromogenic media that presumptively identifies Streptococcus agalactiae (mauve/red colonies) after 18-24 hours incubation in aerobic conditions. Enterococci are differentiated by the formation of blue colonies; other organisms are inhibited or colourless. NB: Some strains of Group A, C & G streptococci may also produce mauve colonies. Therefore, final identification may require additional testing.
  • Traditional methods for the isolation of Vibrio spp. (e.g. TCBS medium) are labour intensive and not particularly sensitive. Colorex™ Vibrio allows for the easy differentiation of V.parahaemolyticus from V.cholerae and V.vulnificus and other Vibrio spp. at the initial isolation stage while retaining a higher level of sensitivity than conventional methods. V.parahaemolyticus produces colonies with a mauve colouration while V.cholerae and V.vulnificus produce colonies with a blue colouration. Colorex™ Vibrio is a highly selective medium with most major Enterobacteriaceae spp. and Gram positive organisms being inhibited during incubation.
  • Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) infections are especially aggressive and have been associated with mortality rates approaching 60% to 70%. They are now the second-leading cause of nosocomial infections in the U.S., and their prevalence is increasing worldwide. Resistance to vancomycin has the potential to be transferred from bacteria to bacteria. Cross-resistance is mediated by plasmids and transposons, which may transfer the genes associated with resistance to other much more aggressive pathogens, such as staphylococci and streptococci. Three principal types of vancomycin resistance are found in Enterococcus spp.; VanA, VanB and VanC genotypes. VanA and VanB types account for most significant infections in clinical settings, involving E.faecium and E.faecalis. VanC resistance is a low-level intrinsic resistance found in other Enterococcus spp. The Colorex™ VRE media is another chromogenic media in the Colorex™ range, enabling presumptive identification of vancomycin resistant Enterococci by the formation of mauve/pink coloured colonies (for VanA and VanB genotypes) and blue coloured colonies (for VanC genotypes) after 18-24 hours incubation.
  • A basic general-purpose blood free medium, capable of supporting the growth of most micro-organisms, including many fastidious organisms that do not require blood.
  • A general purpose medium enriched with 5% Defibrinated Horse Blood, suitable for the isolation of most organisms including many fastidious anaerobes.
  • Columbia Agar Base with 5% Horse Blood & Streptococcal Selective Supplement This is a medium for the selective isolation of Streptococcus spp. from clinical samples. Based on Columbia Agar Base enriched with 5% Horse Blood it is made selective by the addition of Colistin and Oxolinic Acid.
  • A very nutritious general-purpose medium based on Columbia Agar Base enriched with 5% Sheep Blood, suitable for the isolation of most organisms including most fastidious anaerobes of clinical significance. Many workers claim that β-haemolysis is more readily apparent, particularly in group A streptococci, when Sheep Blood is used in place of Horse Blood.
  • This is a medium for the selective isolation of Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. primarily from clinical specimens. Based on Columbia Agar Base enriched with 7% Horse Blood the medium is made selective by the inclusion of Colistin and Nalidixic Acid to suppress the growth of the majority of Gram negative bacteria.
  • Columbia Agar Base with 7% Horse Blood & Gardnerella Supplement This is selective medium for the isolation of Gardnerella vaginalis from clinical samples. Based on Columbia Agar the medium is enriched with 7% Horse Blood and made selective by the addition of Colistin and Nalidixic Acid to suppress other bacteria
  • Columbia Agar Base with 7% Horse Blood & 50mg/L Neomycin Based on Columbia Agar enriched with 7% Horse Blood this formulation has been modified to include Neomycin, which will inhibit most gram-positive and gram-negative aerobes, making it suitable for use as a selective medium for the isolation of many anaerobes.
  • A very nutritious general-purpose medium based on Columbia Agar Base enriched with 7% Sheep Blood, suitable for the isolation of most organisms including most fastidious anaerobes of clinical significance. Many workers claim that β haemolysis is more readily apparent, particularly in group A streptococci, when Sheep Blood is used in place of Horse Blood.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus spp. Based on Columbia Agar, it is enriched by the addition of Sheep Blood (7%) the medium is also made selective by the inclusion of Colistin and Naladixic Acid to suppress the growth of the majority of Gram negative bacteria. The addition of sheep blood the medium allows for good colonial appearance, pigment production and excellent haemolysis from beta-haemolytic streptococci.
  • Columbia Blood Agar with 5% Defibrinated Horse Blood & Cap Selective Supplement This is a medium for the selective isolation of Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. primarily from clinical specimens. Based on Columbia Agar Base enriched with 5% Horse Blood the medium is made selective by the inclusion of Colistin and Aztreonam to suppress the growth of the majority of Gram negative bacteria.
  • This is a selective medium for the cultivation of Taylorella equigenitalis or the contagious equine metritis organism (CEMO) that is the etiological agent for contagious equine metritis. Enzymatic digest of casein and soy peptone provide the required nitrogen, carbon and vitamins, and sodium chloride maintains the osmotic balance of the medium. Sodium sulphite is a reducing agent and L-cystine is an essential amino acid. In addition to this, the medium is further enriched by the inclusion of 7% chocolated horse blood. Amphotericin B is added to suppress the growth of contaminating fungi and yeasts and both clindamycin and trimethoprim are added to suppress bacterial contaminants.
  • This is a selective medium for the cultivation of Taylorella equigenitalis or the contagious equine metritis organism (CEMO) that is the etiological agent for contagious equine metritis. Enzymatic digest of casein and soy peptone provide the required nitrogen, carbon and vitamins, and sodium chloride maintains the osmotic balance of the medium. Sodium sulphite is a reducing agent and L-cystine is an essential amino acid. In addition to this, the medium is further enriched by the inclusion of 7% chocolated horse blood. Amphotericin B is added to suppress the growth of contaminating fungi and yeasts.
  • This is a selective medium for the cultivation of Taylorella equigenitalis or the contagious equine metritis organism (CEMO) that is the etiological agent for contagious equine metritis. Enzymatic digest of casein and soy peptone provide the required nitrogen, carbon and vitamins, and sodium chloride maintains the osmotic balance of the medium. Sodium sulphite is a reducing agent and L-cystine is an essential amino acid. In addition to this, the medium is further enriched by the inclusion of 7% chocolated horse blood. Amphotericin B and streptomycin are added to suppress the growth of fungal/yeast and bacterial contaminants, respectively.
  • Dermatophyte Test Medium with Chloramphenicol & Cyclohexamide (Actidione) This is a selective medium for the isolation of dermatophytes that includes a Phenol Red indicator to assist in the differentiation between dermatophytes and other pathogenic fungi. Although the low pH (5.5) of the medium inhibits most bacteria, Chloramphenicol is added to further reduce the risk when processing material that may be more heavily contaminated. Cyclohexamide (Actidione) is also added to suppress the growth of most yeasts and saprophytic fungi. Dermatophytes appear as fluffy white colonies and produce a red colour on the medium while other fungi cause the medium to become yellow due to acid production. Yeasts will also grow on this medium but are readily distinguished by their distinct white/creamy colonies and distinctive smell. NB: Prolonged incubation should be avoided as this may cause fungi other than dermatophytes to turn the medium red
  • Desoxycholate Citrate Agar (DCA) (Hynes) One of several media designed for the differential selective isolation of Salmonella and Shigella spp from clinical and environmental samples. Lactose is added to the medium together with Neutral Red indicator to assist in the differentiation of Lactose and Non-Lactose fermenting organisms. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Sodium Desoxycholate and Sodium Thiosulphate, which will inhibit most gram-positive organisms. The Sodium Thiosulphate is also broken down by the enzyme thiosulphate reductase to form Sodium Sulphite and Hydrogen Sulphide. The Hydrogen Sulphide, if present, will in turn react with the ferric ions to produce a black precipitate of Ferrous Sulphide and give rise to the classical black centre of most Salmonellae. It has been suggested that this medium may be more suitable for secondary post-enrichment isolation while the original formulation is more appropriate for the primary inoculation of samples.
  • Dichloran Rose-Bengal Chloramphenicol (DRBC) Agar Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol Agar is based on the formulation described by King et al. It is a selective medium for the isolation and enumeration of yeasts and mould that are of significance in food spoilage. The medium is a modification to Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol Agar and is recommended by the International Standard ISO 21527:2008 part 1.
  • DNase Agar is used primarily in clinical laboratories to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other staphylococci based on deoxyribonuclease activity. Staphylococcus aureus produce DNase enzymes that hydrolyse DNA resulting in a colourless zone around the colonies, described as being DNase positive, whereas coagulase negative staphylococci do not produce clearing. This particular formulation can also be used for Streptococci and Serratia. NB: As with most tests of this type a positive result should not be taken in isolation and other appropriate tests, e.g. Coagulase Test, Latex Agglutination etc, should be carried out.
  • Edwards Medium (Modified) with 7% Sheep Blood This is a medium for the selective isolation of streptococci, particularly Streptococcus agalactiae, involved in bovine mastitis. The medium is enriched by the addition of 7% Sheep Blood and made selective by the inclusion of Crystal Violet and Thallous Sulphate. Aesculin is also present and assists in the differentiation of Streptococcus agalactiae, which give rise to blue colonies, from Aesculin positive Group D streptococci which produce black colonies.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar (FAA) with 5% Sheep Blood Fastidious Anaerobe Agar is intended as a primary isolation medium capable of supporting most clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (Starch & Sodium Bicarbonate) growth enhancing agents (Cysteine, Arginine, Vitamin K, Sodium Succinate, Glucose and pyrophosphate) as well as Haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus. Sodium Pyruvate is also included to help neutralise Hydrogen Peroxide. In this instance the medium is further enriched by the addition of 5% Sheep Blood.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar is intended as a primary isolation medium capable of supporting most clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (starch and sodium bicarbonate), growth enhancing agents (cysteine, arginine, vitamin K, sodium succinate, glucose and pyrophosphate), as well as haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus. Sodium pyruvate is also included to help neutralise hydrogen peroxide. In this instance the medium is further enriched by the addition of 5% horse blood. This product is suitable for use with the EUCAST disc diffusion method for selected rapidly growing anaerobic bacteria.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar with 7% Horse Blood Fastidious Anaerobe Agar is intended as a primary isolation medium capable of supporting most clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (Starch & Sodium Bicarbonate) growth enhancing agents (Cysteine, Arginine, Vitamin K, Sodium Succinate, Glucose and pyrophosphate) as well as Haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus. Sodium Pyruvate is also included to help neutralise Hydrogen Peroxide. In this instance the medium is further enriched by the addition of 7% Horse Blood.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar (FAA) with 7% Horse Blood & Neomycin (75mg/L) Fastidious Anaerobe Agar is intended as a primary isolation medium capable of supporting most clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (Starch & Sodium Bicarbonate) as well as growth enhancing agents (Cysteine, Arginine, Vitamin K, Sodium Succinate, Glucose and pyrophosphate) as well as Haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus. Sodium Pyruvate is also included to help neutralise Hydrogen Peroxide. In this instance the medium is made more selective by the inclusion of 75mg/L of Neomycin to inhibit most enteric organisms and further enriched by the addition of 7% Horse Blood.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar with 7% Horse Blood, Vancomycin (6mg/L) & Nalidixic Acid (10mg/L) This is a selective medium for the isolation of gram-negative anaerobes from clinical specimens. The base medium, Fastidious Anaerobe Agar, is complex and includes detoxification agents (Starch & Sodium Bicarbonate), growth enhancing agents (Cysteine, Arginine, Vitamin K, Sodium Succinate, Glucose and pyrophosphate) as well as Haemin to encourage pigment production where appropriate. Sodium Pyruvate is also included to help neutralise Hydrogen Peroxide. The medium is made selective, by the inclusion of Naladixic Acid and Vancomycin and further enriched by the addition of 7% Horse Blood.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (starch and sodium hydrogen carbonate), growth enhancing agents (cysteine, arginine, menadione, sodium succinate, glucose and pyrophosphate) and haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus. Sodium pyruvate is included to help neutralise hydrogen peroxide. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of nalidixic acid and further enriched by the addition of 7% defibrinated horse blood. Tween 80 is added to encourage the growth of anaerobic streptococci.
  • Fastidious Anaerobe Agar is intended as a primary isolation medium capable of supporting most clinically significant anaerobes including fastidious organisms. The formulation is complex and includes detoxification agents (starch & sodium bicarbonate) as well as growth enhancing agents (cysteine, arginine, vitamin K, sodium succinate, glucose and pyrophosphate) as well as haemin to encourage pigment production in Porphyromonas melaninogenicus . Sodium pyruvate is also included to help neutralise hydrogen peroxide. In this instance the medium is made more selective by the inclusion of neomycin and aztreonam to inhibit most enteric organisms and further enriched by the addition of 7% horse blood.
  • This is a non-selective medium for the maintenance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae cultures. Based on the medium developed by Thayer & Martin, it includes Corn Starch to absorb toxic metabolites and is buffered to maintain a neutral pH. Yeast Extract and Glucose are also added as further enrichment along with laked horse blood to ensure an more luxuriant growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. NB: This is a Basic medium only and DOES NOT contain any selective agents. It is therefore not recommended for use as a primary isolation medium.
  • This is one of a number of media available for the selective isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Based on the medium of Thayer & Martin it includes Corn Starch to absorb toxic metabolites and is buffered to maintain a neutral pH. The medium is enriched with Defibrinated Horse Blood where the blood has been ‘chocolated’ by heating the medium to 60°C and made selective by the inclusion of VCAT (Vancomycin, Colistin, Amphotericin and Trimethoprim). Vancomycin and Colistin inhibit the growth of the majority of contaminating organisms likely to be present. Trimethoprim is included to reduce the spread of Proteus spp and Amphotericin to suppress yeasts. Yeast Extract and Glucose are also added as further enrichment.
  • There are a number of media available for the selective isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae of which this is one. Based on the medium developed by Thayer & Martin, it includes Corn Starch to absorb toxic metabolites and is buffered to maintain a neutral pH. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of LCAT (Lincomycin, Colistin, Amphotericin B & Trimethoprim). Lincomycin and Colistin inhibit the growth of the majority of contaminating organisms likely to be present. Trimethoprim is included to reduce the spreading of Proteus spp and Amphotericin B to inhibit yeasts and fungi. Yeast Extract and Glucose are also added as further enrichment along with laked horse blood to ensure an more luxuriant growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
  • There are a number of media available for the selective isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae of which this is one. Based on the medium developed by Thayer & Martin, it includes Corn Starch to absorb toxic metabolites and is buffered to maintain a neutral pH. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of VCAT (Vancomycin, Colistin, Amphotericin B & Trimethoprim). Vancomycin and Colistin inhibit the growth of the majority of contaminating organisms likely to be present. Trimethoprim is included to reduce the spreading of Proteus spp and Amphotericin B to inhibit yeasts and fungi. Yeast Extract and Glucose are also added as further enrichment along with laked horse blood to ensure an more luxuriant growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
  • There are a number of media available for the selective isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae of which this is one. Based on the medium developed by Thayer & Martin, it includes Corn Starch to absorb toxic metabolites and is buffered to maintain a neutral pH. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of VCNT (Vancomycin, Colistin, Nystatin & Trimethoprim). Vancomycin and Colistin inhibit the growth of the majority of contaminating organisms likely to be present. Trimethoprim is included to reduce the spreading of Proteus spp and Nystatin to inhibit yeasts and fungi. Yeast Extract and Glucose are also added as further enrichment along with laked horse blood to ensure an more luxuriant growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
  • This medium was initially intended for the selective isolation of Shigella spp. but can also be used for Salmonella spp. primarily from clinical specimens although it has been used in the examination of dairy products. The medium contains high levels of Peptone to counteract some of the toxic effects, particularly on Shigella, of the Bile Salts used to make the medium selective. In addition to Lactose, Sucrose and Salicin are also included allowing for improved differentiation than with Lactose only. The presence of H2S is detected by the reaction between Ammonium Ferric Citrate and Sodium Thiosulphate. A double indicator system of Acid Fuchsin and Bromothymol Blue is helpful in the differentiation process.
  • Helicobacter Pylori Medium with 10% Horse Serum, Cefsulodin (10mg/L), Vancomycin (10mg/L) & Amphoteracin (20mg/L) This is a selective medium for the isolation of Helicobacter pylori from clinical samples. The medium is based on a modification of Campylobacter CCDA Blood Free Medium with Charcoal, Ferrous Sulphate and Sodium Pyruvate replacing the Horse Blood and is made selective by the addition of Vancomycin and Cefsulodin to suppress other bacteria and Amphoteracin to inhibit yeasts. 10% Horse Serum is also added to promote optimum growth of helicobacter.
  • PP0610

    Hoyles Medium

    A selective culture medium for the isolation and differentiation of Corynebacterium diphtheriae types, Hoyle’s medium allows for rapid growth of the organisms and normally 18 hours incubation should be sufficient for a diagnosis. As the medium is highly selective, inoculation should be by rubbing the swab (or other material) over the entire surface of the agar, there is no need to spread the inoculum with a loop indeed doing so can cause the organism to be missed especially when they are present only in small numbers.
  • Iso-Sensitest with 5% Horse Blood & NAD (20mg/L) (25ml per dish) This is a defined medium suitable for antimicrobial susceptibility testing and on which most organisms will grow. The medium has been enriched with Horse Blood to meet the demands of the more fastidious organisms and NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is also included to further enhance the growth of Haemophilus spp. This medium is included in the recommendations of BSAC as being appropriate for the susceptibility testing of Haemophilus spp.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation and enumeration of enterococci (Group D streptococci) primarily in food although it has found uses in other areas of bacteriology. The medium is made selective by the inclusion of Kanamycin and Sodium Azide while Aesculin and Ferric Ammonium Citrate act as the indicator system.
  • LB media formulations have been an industry standard for the cultivation of Escherichia coli as far back as the 1950s. These media have been widely used in molecular microbiology applications for the preparation of plasmid DNA and recombinant proteins. Vitamins and certain trace elements are provided by yeast extract. Sodium ions for transport and osmotic balance are provided by sodium chloride. Tryptone is used to provide essential amino acids to the growing bacteria.
  • LB media formulations have been an industry standard for the cultivation of Escherichia coli as far back as the 1950s. These media have been widely used in molecular microbiology applications for the preparation of plasmid DNA and recombinant proteins. This medium has the addition of carbenicillin at 100mg/L for use with transformed cells harbouring selection plasmids containing carbenicillin resistance genes. Peptides and essential amino acids are provided by tryptone. Vitamins and certain trace elements are provided by yeast extract and sodium chloride provides osmotic balance.
  • LB media formulations have been an industry standard for the cultivation of Escherichia coli as far back as the 1950s.These media have been widely used in molecular microbiology applications for the preparation of plasmid DNA and recombinant proteins. This media has the addition of Kanamycin at 0.05gms/L for use with Kanamycin resistant strains and cells harbouring selection plasmids containing the Kanamycin resistance gene.Peptides and peptones are provided by tryptone. Vitamins and certain trace elements are provided by yeast extract. Sodium ions for transport and osmotic balance are provided by sodium chloride. Tryptone is used to provide essential amino acids to the growing bacteria, while the yeast extract is used to provide a plethora of organic compounds helpful for bacterial growth.
  • LB media formulations have been an industry standard for the cultivation of Escherichia coli as far back as the 1950s.These media have been widely used in molecular microbiology applications for the preparation of plasmid DNA and recombinant proteins. This medium has the addition of kanamycin at 50mg/L and chloramphenicol at 34mg/L, for use with kanamycin and chloramphenicol resistant strains and cells harbouring selection plasmids containing the kanamycin and rifampicin resistance genes. Peptides, peptones and essential amino acids are provided by tryptone. Vitamins and certain trace elements are provided by yeast extract and sodium chloride provides osmotic balance.
  • Legionella Cystine Free Medium is intended for use in conjunction with Legionella CYE Medium (PP0200) as a secondary diagnostic medium for confirmation of a previously isolated organism. Although it contains Ferric Pyrophosphate and α-ketoglutarate it does not contain any L-Cysteine Hydrochloride. NB : This is a base medium only and will not sustain the growth of Legionella spp.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of Legionella spp is used primarily in water and environmental laboratories. The base agar contains Yeast Extract as a source of protein, Charcoal to neutralise growth-inhibiting substances and is supplemented with Ferric Pyrophosphate as a source of iron, L-cysteine hydrochloride and α-ketoglutarate to form amino acid and chelate respectively. ACES buffer is incorporated to maintain the optimal pH for growth. The medium is made selective by the addition of Glycine, Vancomycin & Polymyxin B to inhibit the majority of gram positive and gram negative organisms and Cycloheximide is also included to inhibit yeasts and fungi.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation of Legionella spp used primarily in clinical and environmental laboratories. The base agar contains Yeast Extract as a source of protein, Charcoal to neutralise growth-inhibiting substances and is supplemented with Ferric Pyrophosphate as a source of iron, L-Cysteine hydrochloride and α-ketoglutarate to form amino acid and chelate respectively. ACES buffer and Potassium hydroxide are incorporated to maintain the optimal pH for growth. The medium is made selective by the addition of Cefamandole and Polymixin to inhibit most gram positive and gram negative organisms and Cyclohexamide is also included to inhibit yeasts and fungi.
  • This is a basic medium for the cultivation of Legionella spp. It is intended primarily for use as a secondary diagnostic medium in conjunction with Legionella Cystine Free Medium (PP0201) for confirmation of a previously isolated organism. NB: This is a basal medium only and although it will sustain the growth of Legionella spp. It contains no selective supplements. It is therefore not recommended as a means of primary isolations from clinical samples.
  • One of several media available as a selective identification medium for the isolation and identification of Listeria monocytogenes in food & clinical laboratories. Using Columbia Agar as the base Lithium Chloride is included to inhibit enterococci and Acriflavine to inhibit some other gram positive and gram negative organisms that may be present in such specimens. It is made further selective by the addition of the antimicrobials Cefoxitin, Colistin & Fosfomycin with Amphotericin included to inhibit any yeasts present. Aesculin is present as an indicator since Listeria monocytogenes will hydrolyse it and the associated reaction with the Ferric Ammonium Citrate gives rise to a black precipitate around the colonies.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation and differentiation of bile tolerant gram-negative (enteric) and gram-positive (staphylococci and enterococci) organisms and has uses in all areas of bacteriology. It has the disadvantage that many strains of Proteus spp will spread on it and for this reason MacConkey Agar without Salt may be preferred.
  • This is a selective medium primarily for the isolation and differentiation of coliforms and non-lactose fermenting Gram –ve bacterial species from clinical, dairy, industrial and water samples. This media differs from the original MacConkey formulation with the addition of an extra 0.5% Sodium chloride, an altered Bile salt mix and the neutral red concentration was also modified. This enhanced the effect of inhibiting Gram +ve and other non-enteric bacterial species. This medium conforms to the requirements of the Harmonised USP/EP/JP.
  • This is a selective medium primarily for the isolation of Enterobacteriacae from waters & sewage. This media differs from the original MacConkey formulation in that as well as Bile Salts, Crystal Violet has been included as an additional selective agent. This has the effect of inhibiting gram-positive micrococci.
  • Originally introduced for the isolation and differentiation of Lactose & Non-Lactose Fermenting enteric organisms the medium in this case has been modified to improve the isolation of staphylococci and enterococci. The absence of Sodium Chloride provides a low electrolyte medium that prevents spreading of most Proteus spp. Although recommended for use in the examination of urine samples in clinical laboratories it has uses in Food, Water and Dairy applications.
  • This is a medium for the cultivation of yeasts and moulds. The high carbohydrate content is said to ensure rapid growth while the low pH (5.4) inhibits most bacteria. Malt Extract Agar can also be used for the cultivation of fungi although with the prolonged incubation necessary cultures may become overgrown by bacteria.
  • A selective medium for the isolation of Staphylococcus aureus. The high level of Sodium Chloride inhibits most other organisms and as most Staphylococcus aureus ferment Mannitol the inclusion of Phenol Red indicator gives rise to yellow colonies. This formulation complies with the requirements of the Harmonised USP/EP/JP. NB: Some strains of coagulase negative staphylococci can give rise to false positive results on this medium It is necessary therefore to confirm the identity of Staphylococcus aureus by other confirmatory tests (e.g. Coagulase test, Latex test etc.)
  • Middlebrooks 7H10 Selective Medium is an Agar based medium for the isolation of Mycobacteria spp from clinical specimens. It differs from Middlebrooks 7H11 Agar in that it has a lower concentration of Malachite Green, which is said by some workers to make it more suitable for primary isolation. The medium is complex but includes L-Glutamic Acid, Ammonium Sulphate, Sodium Citrate, Pyridoxine and Biotin as growth factors and Magnesium Sulphate, Ferric Ammonium Citrate as sources of trace ions. Further enrichment is provided by the addition of Oleic Acid, Albumen and Dextrose and it is made selective by the inclusion of Ticarcillin, Polymixin B, Trimethoprim and Amphotericin B. As with egg media Glycerol is included to enhance the growth of the Mycobacteria and Malachite Green is incorporated to provide a colour contrast between the colonies and the medium as well as contributing some inhibitory effect on organisms other than mycobacteria.  
  • Middlebrooks 7H11 Selective Medium is an agar based medium for the isolation of Mycobacteria spp from clinical specimens. It differs from Middlebrooks 7H10 Agar in that it has a higher concentration of Malachite Green. The medium is complex and includes L-Glutamic Acid, Ammonium Sulphate, Sodium Citrate, Pyridoxine and Biotin as growth factors and Magnesium Sulphate, Ferric Ammonium Citrate as sources of trace ions. The medium is also made selective by the inclusion of Ticarcillin, Polymixin B, Trimethoprim and Amphotericin B. As with egg media Glycerol is included to enhance the growth of the Mycobacteria and Malachite Green is incorporated to provide a colour contrast between the colonies and the medium as well as contributing some inhibitory effect on organisms other than mycobacteria.
  • This medium is used for the presumptive identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from water and environmental samples. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is presumptively identified by the characteristic green pigmentation of the colonies with hydrolysis of casein (clear zones around each colony).
  • Mueller Hinton Agar Chocolate is used for the isolation and cultivation of fastidious bacteria from clinical specimens. It may also be used for the susceptibility testing of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Mueller Hinton Agar Chocolate is an enriched, non-selective medium on which fastidious and non-fastidious bacteria, including normal flora, will grow. Therefore, it is recommended to inoculate specimens also onto appropriate selective media. The term “fastidious bacteria” relates to bacteria that do not grow or do not grow well on normally used primary isolation media containing sheep blood.
  • Approved by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) in USA this medium can be considered as an alternative to Iso-Sensitest Agar for antimicrobial sensitivity testing by disc diffusion methods. It is low in Thymine and Thymidine and is therefore suitable for use in testing Sulphonamides & Trimethoprim without the addition of Lysed Blood.
  • Approved by the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) in USA this medium is approved for use in antimicrobial sensitivity testing by the disc diffusion method and is recommended particularly for use with the Bauer-Kirby Technique It is low in Thymine and Thymidine and is therefore suitable for use in testing Sulphonamides & Trimethoprim and controlled to ensure correct zone sizes with Tetracyline and Aminoglycoside antibiotics. It can be considered as an alternative to Iso-Sensitest Agar. This particular formulation has an additional 2% Sodium Chloride added to the medium making it suitable for the detection of resistance to Methicillin in staphylococci and it is included in the recommendations of British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC) for this purpose. It is not however recommended for testing of organisms requiring a CO2 enriched environment due to the pH effect on the medium. If incubation in a CO2 enriched environment is essential control organisms should be included to confirm that results have not been altered.
  • Mueller-Hinton with 2% Glucose & Methylene Blue (25ml) This medium is intended for use as a means of differentiation of Candida spp. based on Mueller-Hinton Agar base. The medium is modified by the addition of Glucose and Methylene Blue indicator and is the recommended media for the susceptibility testing of Yeasts according to the CLSI M44-A2 document.
  • A selective medium for the isolation of fungi, particularly dermatophytes from clinical specimens, Mycological Agar is suitable for use in all areas of Mycology. The medium inhibits most bacteria due to the addition of Chloramphenicol which is added to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination when processing material that may be heavily contaminated particularly with Coliforms. Cycloheximide is also added to suppress the growth of yeasts and saprophytic fungi.
  • PP0670

    Nagler Medium

    Based on Fastidious Anaerobe Agar Base with added Egg Yolk Emulsion, this medium can be used to test Clostridium perfringens for phospholipase production. A zone of opalescence around the colonies is indicative of a positive reaction. It can also be used as an aid to identification of Clostridium perfringens if antitoxin is spread onto half of the plate prior to inoculation (Nagler Reaction).
  • Pages Amoeba Saline & Agar No.1 This is a non-nutrient medium based on Page’s Amoeba Saline, a buffered salt solution, solidified with 1.5% Agar.
  • PP0005

    PALCAM Agar

    This is a selective differential medium for the isolation of Listeria monocytogenes from food, clinical and environmental specimens.
  • This medium is recommended for the detection and enumeration of yeasts and fungi in a variety of sample types. The low pH (5.6) and addition of streptomycin will ensure that the growth of most bacterial species is inhibited and the low mineral content ensures good pigment production by fungi where appropriate.
  • Chromogenic Coliform Agar (CCA) Chromogenic Coliform Agar (CCA) conforms to the ISO 9308-1 guidelines for the detection, enumeration and isolation of coliforms and more specifically Escherichia coli in water samples by the membrane-filtration technique. The colonial differentiation is provided by the chromogenic substrates, Salmon-GAL and X-glucuronide. Salmon-GAL is used for the detection of β-D-galactosidase enzymatic activity. X-glucuronide is used for the detection of β-D-Glucoronidase enzymatic activity. β-D-galactosidase, expressed by all coliforms, cleaves the Salmon-GAL substrate and producing red/pink coloured colonies. Unlike other coliforms, Escherichia coli leaves both Salmon-GAL and X-glucuronide producing a violet/blue coloured colonies. Tryptophan is used to increase detection reliability by improving the indole reaction. The peptones, sodium pyruvate and sorbitol support bacterial growth and simple recovery of sub-lethal thermally injured coliforms. Sodium di-hydrogen phosphate and di-sodium hydrogen phosphate phosphate buffer the medium and sodium chloride is used to achieve osmotic balance. The selectivity is attained by the addition of Tergitol® 7 as it inhibits the growth of Gram positive bacteria.
  • PP6028

    Primary mLGA

    Traditionally, membrane Lauryl Suphate Broth (mLSB) was used as the standard media for isolating coliforms (including E. coli) from drinking water. Primary membrane Lactose Glucuronide Agar (mLGA) is a chromogenic modification of mLSB formulation aimed at reducing costs by reducing the number of filters used per test sample and aiding in the recovery and identification of coliforms and <em,>E. coli . The medium has been modified from the mLSB formulation by the incorporation of X-glucuronide, sodium pyruvate and agar. X-glucuronide is incorporated to allow for the presumptive isolation of E. coli, sodium pyruvate aids recovery of chlorine stressed organisms and agar is incorporated to remove the need for absorbent pads. This medium is recommended for the enumeration of coliform bacteria and E. coli by a single membrane filtration technique in The Environment Agency’s - The Microbiology of Drinking Water 2009 (Part 4).
  • Tryptone Bile X (TBX) - Glucuronide Agar Recent developments in culture media have given rise to the use of chromogenic substrates as a means of differentiating bacteria particularly among the coliform group of organisms. This is one such medium and has been developed as a selective medium for the isolation and enumeration of Escherichia coli in food samples. Based on Tryptone Bile Agar it incorporates the chromogenic agent X-glucuronide, which detects glucuronidase activity, the same enzyme as is detected by MUG reagent. Escherichia coli can be differentiated from other coliform organisms by the presence of glucuronidase resulting in the colonies being blue/green while the other coliforms are colourless. For information on the full technical detail as to the functionality of this medium reference should be made to the many publications available.
  • Recent developments in culture media have given rise to the use of chromogenic substrates as a means of differentiating bacteria particularly among the coliform group of organisms. This is one such medium and has been developed with the aim of simplifying the differentiation and presumptive identification of the main organisms usually found in Urinary Tract Infections. Based on the traditional CLED Medium, to prevent the swarming of Proteus spp, two chromogens are present in the medium. One allows the detection of enterococci giving rise to blue colonies whilst the second results in purple colonies of E. coli. Phenylalanine and Tryptophan are also included as indicators of Tryptophan deaminase activity producing brown colonies of Proteus spp. This media is an opaque version to aid differentiation and presumptive identification of the bacteria isolated.
  • This is a medium for the isolation and identification of Group B streptococci. The principal of the medium is based on the ability of group B streptococci to produce unique orange/red pigmented colonies when incubated anaerobically, particularly on media containing starch products. This medium is non-selective so other organisms will grow on this medium but they do not produce the characteristic pigment.
  • Pseudomonas Agar Base with 1% Glycerol, Cephalothin, Fucidin & Cetrimide (CFC) This is a selective medium for the isolation of Pseudomonas spp primarily in food, water and environmental samples. The medium uses Magnesium and Potassium salts to enhance pigment production and is made selective by the addition of CFC supplement. The presence of blue/green or brown pigmentation or fluorescence is indicative of presumptive Pseudomonas spp. It should be noted however that further testing must be carried out to confirm the full identity of the organism.
  • Pseudomonas Agar Base with 1% Glycerol & CN Supplement A selective medium for the isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa the medium is made selective by the inclusion of Cetrimide and Naladixic Acid (CN) supplement to significantly reduce the enteric organisms particularly Proteus and Klebsiella spp. Magnesium and Potassium salts are included to enhance the production of the pigments pyocyanin and fluorescein.
  • A selective medium for the isolation of Pseudomonas spp. primarily in food, water and environmental samples the medium is made selective by the addition of CFC supplement (cetrimide, at a concentration of 10mg/L which is said to allow the growth of all pseudomonads, cephalothin and fucidin). The presence of blue/green or brown pigmentation or fluorescence is indicative of presumptive Pseudomonas spp. It should be noted however that further testing must be carried out to confirm the full identity of the organism.
  • PP1281

    R2A Agar

    R2A medium was developed to determine the bacterial count including heterotrophic bacteria in potable waters during treatment and distribution. This medium has a low nutritional content and therefore requires extended incubation times. It is recommended by the Environmental Agency, Methods for the Examination of Waters and Associated Materials, and Standard Methods for the Enumeration of Water and Wastewater.
  • RPMI Medium for E-Test RPMI Medium is recommended for use in anti-fungal susceptibility testing of yeasts from clinical isolates using the E-Test method. The medium is based on a simple Glucose Agar with added RPMI-1640 Medium (without Sodium Bicarbonate & Phenol Red), which supplies the necessary vitamins and amino-acids, and MOPS (3-(Morpholino)propanesulfonic Acid) Buffer to maintain the medium pH during incubation.
  • Sabouraud Dextrose Agar with Chloramphenicol (0.5g/L) is a selective media for the isolation of yeasts and fungi suitable for use in all areas of mycology. Sabouraud dextrose agar is a modification of a medium originally described by Sabouraud.(1) The tryptone and meat peptone provides the required nitrogen, carbon and vitamins. The high concentration of dextrose is included as an energy source. Due to the higher pH of the medium, an increased concentration of chloramphenicol is included to improve the selectivity of the media and inhibit a range of Gram-positive and Gram negative bacteria. 1. Sabouraud, R. 1892. Ann. Dermatol. Syphilol. 3:1061.
  • Sabouraud Dextrose Agar with Chloramphenicol (50mg/L) & Cyclohexamide (Actidione) (300mg/L) A selective medium for the isolation of fungi, Sabouraud Dextrose Agar is suitable for use in all areas of Mycology. The low pH of the medium inhibits most bacteria however in this formulation Chloramphenicol (50mg/L) is added to further reduce the risk when processing material that may be heavily contaminated particularly with coliforms. Cycloheximide is also added to suppress the growth of yeasts and saprophytic fungi.
  • This is a modification of Sabouraud Dextrose Agar. The low pH (5.6) of the medium is inhibitory to most bacteria and it has been made specifically selective by the addition of colistin and gentamicin. This further reduces the risk of bacterial contamination when processing material that may be heavily contaminated particularly with Gram negative organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Originally intended as a medium for the enumeration of enterococci in water using Membrane Filtration, this medium has become more popular in many other areas such as food bacteriology. The medium contains Tetrazolium Chloride, which is reduced by enterococci to the insoluble red dye Formazan resulting in dark red colonies of enterococci on the agar. It should be noted that this reaction is not exclusive to enterococci and colonies should be confirmed by additional testing e.g. Aesculin hydrolysis.
  • This is a differential medium for the isolation of Escherichia coli 0157:H7. It differs from other MacConkey media in that lactose has been replaced by sorbitol. As Escherichia coli 0157:H7 does not ferment sorbitol, it produces pale translucent colonies whereas most other strains of Escherichia coli do ferment sorbitol and produce pink colonies.
  • Sorbitol MacConkey with Cefixime & Tellurite (CT-Smac) This is a selective differential medium for the isolation of Escherichia coli 0157:H7. It differs from other MacConkey medium in that Lactose has been replaced by Sorbitol. As Escherichia coli 0157:H7 does not ferment Sorbitol it produces pale translucent colonies whereas most other strains of Escherichia coli are Sorbitol positive and produce pink colonies. The medium is made more selective by the addition of the antimicrobial Cefixime and Potassium Tellurite.
  • Thiosulphate Citrate Bile Salts Sucrose (TCBS) Agar TCBS is a selective isolation medium for culture of pathogenic Vibrio spp. from clinical samples. The formulation was developed by Kobayashi, Enomoto, Skazaki and Kuwahara. This medium inhibits most enterobacteriacae for at least 24 hours. For the isolation of Vibrio spp. other than V.cholerae in environmental bacteriology, it is advisable to incubate at the lower temperature range of 20°C – 30°C. NB - It is not recommended to perform an oxidase test on any presumptive positive isolates directly from TCBS medium.
  • This is a medium to detect Thermo-Stable-Nuclease from Staphylococcus aureus after heat inactivation of the organism. After boiling and centrifugation the supernatant is placed in a well in the plate and incubated for 4 hours. If present, the enzyme breaks down the DNA in the medium and produces a zone of clearing indicating a positive reaction.
  • Triphenyltetrazolium Chloride Soya Tryptone (TSAT) Agar Complete Triphenyltetrazolium Chloride (TTC) has been added as an indicator to various media, and recommended by several workers as being helpful in the early recognition and identification of a variety of bacteria including Escherichia coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and enterococci. This particular formulation is based on a Tryptone Soya Agar with added Sucrose and is particularly useful when performing counts on food and food product samples. Many of the enterobacteriaceae and enterococci will reduce the TTC to a formazan which colours the colonies deep red making them easier to distinguish and identify. The presence of the Sucrose can also assist in the differentiation of Sucrose fermenting and non-fermenting strains.
  • This is a plate count agar originally suggested by the American public Health Association for the estimation of total viable counts in food and dairy products.
  • This is a medium for determining the mutagenicity of a chemical reagent using the Ames Test. A histidine requiring strain (His- ) of Salmonella typhimurium is inoculated into a mixture of salt agar, histidine solution and the test reagent, which is mixed and then used to overlay the media. Following incubation if the test reagent is mutagenic it will reverse the His- phenotype allowing growth to occur at a higher level than the control.
  • PP0320

    XLD Agar

    Originally introduced as an aid to recovery of Shigella spp. XLD is also a first class medium for recovery of Salmonella spp. It differs from other media of this type in that it has less Sodium Desoxycholate as its selective agent. The indicator system is somewhat complex taking advantage of the fermentation or otherwise of three carbohydrates (Lactose Sucrose and Xylose) together with Lysine Decarboxylase and Sodium Thiosulphate as an indication of the presence or absence of Hydrogen Sulphide.
  • Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate (XLD) Agar is used for the isolation and detection of Salmonella and Shigella spp. It differs from other media of this type in that it has less sodium deoxycholate as its selective agent. The indicator system is somewhat complex taking advantage of the fermentation or otherwise of three carbohydrates (lactose, sucrose and xylose) together with lysine decarboxylase and sodium thiosulphate as an indication of the presence or absence of hydrogen sulphide. The addition of novobiocin (20mg/L) improves the inhibition of Proteus spp.
  • A nutrient agar corresponding to the standard formulation described in ISO 6222:1999.
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation and enumeration of yeasts and moulds in dairy products. The medium has a low pH to inhibit bacterial growth and is made more selective by the inclusion of chloramphenicol. It complies with the requirements of ISO 6611 for the enumeration of yeasts and moulds .
  • This is a selective medium for the isolation and enumeration of Yersinia spp. in clinical and food samples. It is made selective by the inclusion of Sodium desoxycholate, Crystal violet and the antimicrobials Cefsulodin, Novobiocin and Irgasan. Mannitol is also included which Yersinia ferments giving a colony that produces a ‘Bull’s Eye’ appearance. The majority of other enteric organisms are inhibited but if they do grow they produce a large pinkish colony with an opaque halo.