The Total Plate Count/Coliforms Dipslide (Plate Count Agar with TTC and VRBG Agar) is a ready-to-use device with selective medium allowing the isolation and enumeration of Enterobacteriaceae. The other medium is used to obtain the total bacterial count. Both media are coated onto a plastic paddle used for the microbial monitoring of surfaces and liquids even in the presence of residues of disinfectants.

TEST PROCEDURE

1. Take a slide from the refrigerator and leave it at ambient temperature for about 5 minutes.
2. Unscrew and extract the slide from its cylindrical container. Avoid any contact with the agar surface.
3. For surface monitoring, flex the cap forming a 90° angle and press each side of the slide firmly against the surface to be examined for 10 seconds. Alternatively, use a swab for sampling the area, afterwards roll the swab gently over the agar surface. For examination of liquids, hold the slide by the cap and immerse it completely into the test fluid.
4. Reinsert the slide into its tube, screw it tight and incubate at 37 ± 1°C for 24 h. Record the count on  VRBG Agar + Neutralizing prior to continuing incubation at 30 ± 1°C for another 48 h.

RESULTS INTERPRETATION

Count the total number of colonies on PCA + TTC + Neutralizing (Side 1) to obtain the total bacterial count. Enterobacteriaceae ferment glucose forming pink to red or purple colonies (with or without precipitation haloes) on VRBG Agar + Neutralizing (Side 2).

APPEARANCE

Side 1. Slightly opalescent, light amber.

Side 2. Very slightly to slightly opalescent, reddish-purple.

STORAGE CONDITIONS

10-25°C away from light, until the expiry date on the label. Eliminate if signs of deterioration or contamination are evident.

SHELF LIFE

9 months