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 or unusuable.

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

High humidity environments are especially detrimental to storing powder growth media. Following are storage recommendations in high humidity environments to preserve our growth media's loose powder format:

Use a humidity meter to measure humidity in the storage environment. Humidity should be maintained at 30%-40%.
Use large, reusable 100-500 gram desiccant packets such as this and this to store with growth media.
Store media plus a large desiccant in a cooler.

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 growth media, they store it in a cold room that does not exceed 21°Celcius (70°F) until individual orders are packed and shipped.

Please contact Aquagen x with any questions on this topic.