Tips for Storing Aquagenx Growth Media

One of the many great features of the Aquagenx powder growth media for E. coli and Total Coliforms for CBT EC+TC Kits and GEL EC CFU Kits is it does not requite a cold chain. However, all instructions for use for Aquagenx water quality test kits specify the media must be stored at 4-25 degrees Celsius in a dry environment.

These storage conditions are important to prevent water vapor ingress that could affect the format of the powder. If our growth media is stored in very warm, high humidity environments for long periods of time, the powder can become hardened and sticky, and it is more difficult to use.

Proper storage conditions also help ensure the three-year shelf life of our growth media.

On our end, after we manufacture media we package 25 individual medium packets into a thick 4 mil bag with a 5gr desiccant to discourage water vapor ingress. When our warehouse receives our growth media, they store it in a refrigerated cold room until individual orders are packed and shipped.

If your testing location is in a high humidy environment, there are additional steps you can take in the field to preserve our growth media’s loose powder format: Store media in a styrofoam cooler or insulated storage box with a large, reusable 100-500 gram desiccant brick.

There are many options for large, reusable desiccant from different vendors. Here is an example of this desicccant on Amazon USA. 

Please contact Aquagenx with any questions on this topic.