STERILIZATION OF LABORATORY MEDIA AND SUPPLIES

The goal of sterilization is to kill (or physically remove) 100% of the living microorganisms and their various resistant reproductive spores (mold conidiospores, yeast ascospores, bacterial endospores) as well. This is different from sanitation, which is a production concept, whereby the total cell count is reduced to an acceptably low number (likely zero). Sterilization of laboratory media and equipment may utilize exposure to conditions of high temperature (boiling water), or combined high temperature and pressure (autoclave), toxic chemicals, or physical removal (filtration). 

Cycloheximide (20 to lOOmg/L) Saccharomyces Non-Saccharomyces yeasts Lactic acid bacteria 

Oxytetracycline (lOOmg/L) Lactic acid bacteria Saccharomyces 

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The capability to steam-sterilize laboratory media and glassware and various other supplies is essential to success in the laboratory (see Appendix B). Unfortunately, the cost of this piece of equipment parallels that of the microscope, ranging from nearly 3100. for small-capacity models to over 6500 for units of 3 ft capacity. In addition to capacity, other cost features include the ability to vary heat x pressure cycles and exhaust capabilities. 

Most laboratories have an assortment of equipment designed to sterilize growth media and supplies by application of heat or heat and steam. 

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