2× YT Agar (AS-1395) – Double-Strength Medium for High-Density Bacterial Growth

2× YT Agar (Double-Strength Yeast Tryptone Agar) is a nutrient-rich, non-selective solid culture medium designed to support rapid and high-density growth of bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli used in molecular biology and recombinant DNA workflows.

Compared to standard LB, 2× YT Agar contains double the tryptone (16.0 g/L) and yeast extract (10.0 g/L), providing an increased supply of peptides, amino acids, vitamins, and growth factors. This results in larger colonies, faster growth, and improved plasmid yield in cloning, expression, and phage workflows.

• Double-strength tryptone and yeast extract for enhanced growth and biomass yield
• Supports larger colonies and faster growth than standard LB medium
• Ideal for high-density culture prior to protein induction (IPTG)
• Improved plasmid yield due to enriched nutrient environment
• Widely used in M13 phage display, panning workflows, and phage propagation
• Compatible with all standard antibiotic selection supplements

• High-Density Cloning: E. coli DH5α, BL21, TOP10, XL1-Blue — larger colonies, faster culture
• Protein Expression: Pre-induction growth prior to IPTG addition for recombinant protein
• Phage Work: M13, lambda, T4 bacteriophage propagation; phage display library panning on agar
• Antibiotic Selection: Ampicillin, kanamycin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline selection plates
• Teaching: Demonstration of rich vs minimal media growth rates and colony morphology

1. Suspend 46.0 g in 1 litre of purified or demineralised water.
2. Heat with agitation until completely dissolved.
3. Adjust pH to 7.0 ± 0.2 if required.
4. Sterilise by autoclaving at 121 °C for 15 minutes.
5. Cool to 50–55 °C.
6. Add filter-sterilised antibiotics or supplements aseptically if required.
7. Mix gently and dispense 20–25 mL per 90 mm sterile Petri dish.
8. Allow to solidify on a level surface before use.

Note: Cool to 50–55 °C (slightly higher than LB) to prevent premature solidification due to the enriched composition.

Total: 46.0 g/L  |  pH: 7.0 ± 0.2 at 25 °C

Not classified as hazardous according to GHS criteria (AU WHS Regulations 2011). No hazard pictograms, signal word, or hazard statements required. Standard laboratory precautions apply.

Autoclave inoculated plates (121 °C, 30 min) before disposal. Dispose of unused powder as general laboratory waste in accordance with local regulations.

Not classified as dangerous goods under ADG, IATA, or IMDG. No special transport requirements.