Eosine Methylene Blue Agar

Eosin Methylene Blue agar (EMB) is a selective medium primarily for the isolation of coliforms from clinical, food and environmental samples.

This is the modified formulation of EMB proposed by Levine with a higher concentration of lactose and the sucrose omitted.

The peptone provides the required carbon, nitrogen and vitamins. Lactose is a fermentable carbohydrate and di-potassium phosphate is a buffer.

Eosin Y and methylene blue are indicators. Methylene blue is also a selective agent.

During strong acidic conditions, the dyes impart a metallic sheen to certain lactose fermenters, such as Escherichia coli.

For the isolation of coliforms from clinical, food and environmental samples.

Additional Information

Shelf Life (days): 1095 days

Storage Temp (C): 10-30°C

Dehydrated Medium Appearance: Fine Powder

Prepared Medium Appearance: Firm Gel

Dehydrated Medium Colour: Pink / Purple

Prepared Medium Colour: Violet / brown

Dehydrated PH: 6.8±0.2

Prepared PH: 6.8±0.2

Recommended Incubation: Aerobically at 35-37°C for 18-24 hours

Formula*g/L

Peptone: 10.0

Lactose: 10.0

Di-potassium phosphate: 2.0

Eosin Y: 0.4

Methylene blue: 0.065

Agar: 15.0

Total: 37.5

*Adjusted/supplemented as required to meet performance requirements