Description

Comprehensive Product Description: Potato Dextrose Agar

Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) is a specialized medium designed primarily for the isolation and enumeration of yeasts and moulds from various food products, including dairy items. This versatile agar is recognized by leading organizations such as APHA and FDA for its effectiveness in plate counts during food and dairy examinations. With its carefully formulated ingredients, PDA supports robust fungal growth while inhibiting bacterial contamination, making it an indispensable tool in microbiological laboratories.

Key Ingredients and Their Functions

The formulation of Potato Dextrose Agar includes essential components that promote the growth of fungi:

• Potato Infusion (6.0 g/liter): Provides vital nutrients and enhances the growth of yeasts and moulds.
• Dextrose (20.0 g/liter): A simple sugar that serves as a primary energy source for fungi, facilitating vigorous growth.
• Agar (20.0 g/liter): Acts as a solidifying agent, creating a stable substrate for the development of colonies.

This unique combination ensures a final pH of 5.6 ± 0.2 at 25°C, which is optimal for fungal cultivation.

Preparation Instructions

To prepare Potato Dextrose Agar, follow these straightforward steps:

1. Suspend 46.0 g of the dehydrated medium in 1 liter of distilled or deionized water.
2. Mix thoroughly and heat with frequent agitation until boiling for one minute.
3. Sterilize the medium in an autoclave at 121°C (15 lbs.) for 15 minutes.
4. Cool the mixture to 40-45°C before pouring it into sterile Petri dishes.

By adhering to these preparation guidelines, you can ensure consistent results in your microbiological assessments.

Applications of Potato Dextrose Agar

Potato Dextrose Agar is not only suitable for yeast and mould enumeration but also plays a crucial role in stimulating sporulation and maintaining stock cultures of dermatophytes. Additionally, it is widely used for differentiating various dermatophyte species based on their pigment production. Recommended by USP, BP, EP, and JP, this medium meets stringent quality standards for fungal growth, making it a reliable choice for laboratory use.

Storage and Shelf Life

For optimal performance, it is essential to store Potato Dextrose Agar in its tightly capped original container at temperatures ranging from 5-30°C. The dehydrated medium boasts a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture. Prepared media should be stored out of direct light at 2-8°C, ensuring longevity and efficacy.

Quality Control Measures

Quality control is vital for ensuring the reliability of Dextrose Agar. Inoculate the prepared medium and incubate it at 28±1°C for 48-96 hours. Observing the growth of yeasts and moulds during this period will validate the medium’s effectiveness.

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