Description
Specifications Table
| Product Name | MacConkey Agar with 0.15% Bile Salts, CV and NaCl, Granulated | GM081-500 gm Himedia |
|---|---|
| Quantity/Pack Size | 500 gm |
| Form | Granulated |
| Grade | Microbiology Grade |
| Application | Selective isolation of Gram-negative bacteria, differential for lactose fermentation |
Product Description
MacConkey Agar is a widely used selective and differential medium in microbiology labs. This formulation includes 0.15% bile salts, crystal violet (CV), and sodium chloride (NaCl) to inhibit Gram-positive bacteria while allowing Gram-negative organisms to grow. The addition of lactose and neutral red dye helps differentiate lactose-fermenting colonies (pink/red) from non-fermenters (colorless).
This granulated medium from Himedia (GM081) is designed for consistent performance in clinical, research, and educational settings. Whether you’re identifying enteric pathogens or conducting routine quality control, this MacConkey Agar provides reliable results. The 500 gm pack size ensures you have an ample supply for multiple experiments or batch preparations.
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The medium’s composition makes it particularly useful for isolating and differentiating members of the Enterobacteriaceae family, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. The bile salts and CV create a hostile environment for Gram-positive bacteria, while the NaCl maintains osmotic balance. This selectivity is crucial when working with mixed samples or environmental specimens.
For students and educators, this MacConkey Agar serves as an excellent teaching tool for demonstrating bacterial metabolism and colony morphology. Researchers will appreciate its consistency in experimental protocols. The granulated form ensures easy preparation—simply suspend in water, autoclave, and pour plates.
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When preparing the medium, follow standard microbiological practices. Dissolve 50.5 grams in 1 liter of distilled water, heat to boiling to fully dissolve, and sterilize by autoclaving at 121°C for 15 minutes. Cool to 45-50°C before pouring into sterile Petri dishes. Store the prepared medium at 2-8°C and use within the recommended shelf life.
This product is manufactured by Himedia, a trusted name in microbiology media, ensuring you receive a product that meets international quality standards. The 500 gm packaging is ideal for laboratories with moderate to high usage, reducing the need for frequent reordering.
FAQs
What is the shelf life of MacConkey Agar?
The unopened product has a shelf life of 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored at room temperature in a dry place. Prepared media should be used within 4 weeks when stored at 2-8°C.
Can this medium be used for environmental samples?
Yes, MacConkey Agar is excellent for environmental samples as it selectively isolates Gram-negative bacteria commonly found in water, soil, and food samples.
How does the bile salt concentration affect selectivity?
The 0.15% bile salt concentration inhibits most Gram-positive bacteria while allowing Gram-negative organisms to grow, making it highly selective for enteric bacteria.
Is this product suitable for student labs?
Absolutely. The granulated form makes preparation straightforward, and the clear differentiation of lactose fermenters makes it ideal for teaching bacterial metabolism.
What safety precautions should be taken when handling?
While not highly hazardous, standard lab safety applies. Wear gloves and lab coat, avoid inhalation of powder, and prepare in a well-ventilated area or biosafety cabinet.
