Skip to product information
Request a Quote
Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth (BCP Azide Broth) – Selective Enrichment for Enterococci | AS-1154
$97.00 AUD
Cat. No. AS-1154 | AuSaMicS Life Science™
Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth
Selective Liquid Medium Faecal Streptococci / Enterococci Water & Food Testing ISO 7899-1 Compatible Made in Australia
Product Overview
Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth (BCP Azide Broth) is a selective, differential liquid culture medium designed for the presumptive detection and enumeration of faecal streptococci (enterococci) in water, food, environmental, and clinical specimens. Sodium azide selectively suppresses gram-negative bacteria, whilst bromocresol purple serves as a pH indicator — turning yellow upon acid production from glucose fermentation, signalling presumptive positivity.
Key Features & Benefits
- High selectivity: Sodium azide effectively inhibits gram-negative organisms including coliforms and Pseudomonas spp., enabling clean recovery of faecal streptococci.
- Dual functionality: Combines selective suppression with colorimetric pH indication in a single medium — no additional reagents required for presumptive identification.
- Regulatory alignment: Formulated for use with APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (Method 9230B), ISO 7899-1, and AS/NZS 4276 water testing protocols.
- Ready-to-dissolve dehydrated powder: Stable shelf life, convenient preparation, suitable for multiple tube fermentation (MPN) and membrane filtration workflows.
- Locally manufactured: Produced in Thomastown, Victoria — same-week dispatch to Australian laboratories, no import delays.
Technical Overview & Biochemistry
BCP Azide Broth exploits the natural resistance of faecal streptococci and enterococci to sodium azide (NaN₃), a potent inhibitor of cytochrome oxidase that disrupts the electron transport chain of most gram-negative organisms. Enterococci survive due to alternate energy metabolism pathways not dependent on cytochrome oxidase activity.
Upon incubation at 35–37 °C, positive cultures produce acid from glucose fermentation, shifting the bromocresol purple indicator (pKa ≈ 6.3) from purple to yellow. Turbidity with colour change constitutes a presumptive positive result. Confirmation is typically performed by subculturing onto selective agar (e.g., Bile Aesculin Azide Agar or KF Streptococcus Agar).
Intended Applications
- Water quality monitoring — drinking water, recreational water, recycled water
- Food safety microbiology — faecal indicator organism enumeration
- Environmental surveillance — surface waters, wastewater effluent
- Pharmaceutical water testing (WFI, purified water)
- Clinical microbiology — urinary tract and other specimen screening
Product Specifications
| Catalogue Number | AS-1154 |
| Product Name | Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth |
| Common Synonyms | BCP Azide Broth; Faecal Streptococcus Broth; Enterococcus Azide Broth |
| Format | Dehydrated powder |
| Appearance | Homogeneous fine powder, cream to light beige |
| Reconstituted Colour | Purple, clear to slightly opalescent |
| Approximate pH (25 °C) | 6.9 ± 0.2 |
| Preparation Concentration | ~26.5 g/L (single-strength); ~53 g/L (double-strength) |
| Sterilisation | Autoclave 121 °C / 15 min |
| Storage | 15–30 °C, dry, away from light |
| Shelf Life | 3 years from manufacture date (unopened) |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
Available Pack Sizes
| Pack Size | Litres Prepared (SS) | SKU |
|---|---|---|
| 100 g | ~3.8 L | AS-1154-100G |
| 500 g | ~18.9 L | AS-1154-500G |
| 1 kg | ~37.7 L | AS-1154-1KG |
| 5 kg | ~188.7 L | AS-1154-5KG |
Cross-Reference / Equivalent Products
| Supplier | Product Name | Catalogue No. |
|---|---|---|
| AuSaMicS (This product) | Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth | AS-1154 |
| Oxoid (Thermo Fisher) | Azide Blood Glucose Broth / BCP Azide Broth | CM0521 |
| BD Difco | Azide Dextrose Broth | 277810 |
| Merck / Sigma-Aldrich | Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth | 1.10547 |
| Thermo Fisher | Azide Broth (Fecal Streptococcus) | CM0521 |
AuSaMicS Pty Ltd | ABN: 56 676 640 467 | 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia | www.ausamics.com.au | support@ausamics.com | +61 412 520 598
This product is intended for laboratory and research use only. Not for diagnostic use in humans or animals unless validated accordingly. Specifications subject to change without notice. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd assumes no liability for misuse of this product. Users are responsible for compliance with applicable local regulations.
This product is intended for laboratory and research use only. Not for diagnostic use in humans or animals unless validated accordingly. Specifications subject to change without notice. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd assumes no liability for misuse of this product. Users are responsible for compliance with applicable local regulations.
Technical Data Sheet — Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth (AS-1154)
1. Intended Use
Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth is a selective differential liquid medium for the presumptive detection and enumeration of faecal streptococci (enterococci) in water, food, environmental, and pharmaceutical specimens. It is used in multiple tube fermentation (MPN) and membrane filtration workflows per APHA, ISO 7899-1, and AS/NZS 4276 protocols.
2. Mode of Action
Sodium azide (NaN₃) inhibits cytochrome oxidase in gram-negative organisms, blocking electron transport and preventing growth of coliforms and other gram-negative bacteria. Faecal streptococci and enterococci, which possess azide-resistant metabolic pathways, grow freely and ferment dextrose, producing acid that shifts the bromocresol purple indicator from purple (alkaline) to yellow (acid), constituting a presumptive positive result.
3. Formula (per litre, single-strength)
| Ingredient | g/L | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Tryptone (Pancreatic Digest of Casein) | 20.0 | Nitrogen/amino acid source |
| Yeast Extract | 2.5 | Vitamins, cofactors, growth factors |
| Dextrose (D-Glucose) | 2.0 | Fermentable carbohydrate (indicator substrate) |
| Sodium Azide (NaN₃) | 0.2 | Selective inhibitor of gram-negative organisms |
| Bromocresol Purple | 0.015 | pH indicator (purple → yellow upon acidification) |
| Total (approximate) | ~26.5 |
4. Physical Characteristics
| Physical Form | Dehydrated powder |
| Colour (powder) | Cream to light beige |
| Reconstituted colour | Purple, clear (uninoculated) |
| pH (25 °C, SS) | 6.9 ± 0.2 |
| Positive reaction | Yellow turbid broth |
| Negative reaction | Purple clear broth |
5. Preparation Instructions
Single-strength: Suspend 26.5 g in 1 litre of purified/distilled water. Mix well. Dispense into tubes or bottles. Autoclave at 121 °C for 15 minutes. Allow to cool to 45–50 °C before use.
Double-strength (for 10 mL sample inocula): Suspend 53 g in 1 litre of purified water. Prepare as above. Dispense 10 mL into tubes, then inoculate with 10 mL sample for 1:1 dilution.
⚠️ Do not overheat. Sodium azide is heat-sensitive at prolonged high temperatures. Autoclave only at 121 °C / 15 min.
6. Inoculation & Incubation
| Inoculum volume | 1 mL (SS tubes) or 10 mL sample + 10 mL DS broth |
| Incubation temperature | 35–37 °C |
| Incubation period | 24–48 hours (examine at 24 h; confirm at 48 h if negative) |
| Atmosphere | Aerobic |
7. Result Interpretation
| Observation | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Yellow, turbid broth | Presumptive positive — faecal streptococci / enterococci |
| Purple, turbid or clear broth | Negative — no acid production |
Confirm positive results by subculturing to KF Streptococcus Agar, Bile Aesculin Azide Agar, or Enterococcus Selective Agar at 44 °C for 24–48 h.
8. Quality Control
| Test Organism | ATCC No. | Expected Result | Inoculum (CFU/tube) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterococcus faecalis | ATCC 29212 | Growth; yellow broth (positive) | ≤100 |
| Enterococcus faecium | ATCC 19434 | Growth; yellow broth (positive) | ≤100 |
| Escherichia coli | ATCC 25922 | Inhibited; no growth / purple broth | ≤100 |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | ATCC 27853 | Inhibited; no growth / purple broth | ≤100 |
9. Storage & Stability
| Powder storage | 15–30 °C; dry; protect from light and moisture |
| Prepared broth (sealed) | 2–8 °C for up to 2 weeks; protect from light |
| Shelf life (sealed powder) | 3 years from manufacture date |
10. References
- APHA, AWWA, WEF. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 23rd Ed. Method 9230B. 2017.
- ISO 7899-1:1998. Water quality — Detection and enumeration of intestinal enterococci. Part 1: Miniaturised method (MPN).
- Standards Australia AS/NZS 4276.7. Water Microbiology — Enterococci.
- Facklam RR, Collins MD. Identification of Enterococcus species isolated from human infections. J Clin Microbiol. 1989;27(4):731–734.
- Murray BE. The life and times of the Enterococcus. Clin Microbiol Rev. 1990;3(1):46–65.
AuSaMicS Pty Ltd | ABN: 56 676 640 467 | 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia | www.ausamics.com.au | support@ausamics.com | +61 412 520 598
Technical specifications are based on internal quality testing and published references. Data is provided in good faith and is subject to change. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd accepts no liability for losses arising from use of this information. For Research/Laboratory Use Only.
Technical specifications are based on internal quality testing and published references. Data is provided in good faith and is subject to change. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd accepts no liability for losses arising from use of this information. For Research/Laboratory Use Only.
Safety Data Sheet — Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth (AS-1154)
GHS / GHS-AU Compliant | Prepared in accordance with Safe Work Australia HSIS | Issue Date: April 2026 | Version: 1.0
Section 1 — Identification
| Product Name | Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth |
| Catalogue No. | AS-1154 |
| Supplier | AuSaMicS Pty Ltd |
| Address | 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia |
| Phone | +61 412 520 598 |
| support@ausamics.com | |
| Emergency | Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26 (Australia) |
| Recommended Use | Selective microbiological culture medium — laboratory use only |
Section 2 — Hazard Identification
⚠️ DANGER — Contains Sodium Azide (NaN₃): TOXIC if swallowed, inhaled or in contact with skin. May react with metals to form explosive metal azides. Do not allow to enter drains or waterways.
GHS Classification:
- Acute Toxicity (Oral) — Category 2 (H300: Fatal if swallowed)
- Acute Toxicity (Dermal) — Category 3 (H311: Toxic in contact with skin)
- Acute Toxicity (Inhalation) — Category 3 (H331: Toxic if inhaled)
- STOT Repeated Exposure — Category 1 (H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged/repeated exposure)
- Environmentally Hazardous — Aquatic Toxicity Category 1 (H400/H410)
GHS Pictograms: Skull & Crossbones (GHS06); Health Hazard (GHS08); Environment (GHS09); Exclamation Mark (GHS07)
Signal Word: DANGER
Section 3 — Composition / Information on Ingredients
| Component | CAS No. | Approx. % | GHS Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tryptone | 91079-40-2 | ~75% | Not classified |
| Yeast Extract | 8013-01-2 | ~9% | Not classified |
| Dextrose (D-Glucose) | 50-99-7 | ~8% | Not classified |
| Sodium Azide | 26628-22-8 | ~0.75% | Acute Tox. 2 (Oral); Acute Tox. 3 (Dermal/Inhal.); STOT RE 1; Aquatic Tox. 1 |
| Bromocresol Purple | 115-40-2 | <0.1% | Irritant (Eye/Skin Cat. 2) |
Section 4 — First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Wash with soap and water for ≥15 minutes. Seek medical advice.
- Eye contact: Flush with running water for ≥15 minutes. Remove contact lenses. Seek medical attention.
- Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth. Call Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) or physician immediately.
Section 5 — Firefighting Measures
Not flammable. Sodium azide may decompose under high heat to release toxic nitrogen oxides and hydrazoic acid. Use CO₂, dry powder, or foam extinguisher. Do NOT use water jets directly on heated sodium azide. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus.
Section 6 — Accidental Release Measures
Wear PPE (gloves, lab coat, goggles). Sweep up powder; avoid generating dust. Place in labelled, sealable waste container. Do NOT wash down drain — sodium azide forms explosive metal azides in lead/copper plumbing. Dispose via licensed hazardous waste contractor.
Section 7 — Handling & Storage
Handling: Use in a well-ventilated area or fume cupboard. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Do not eat/drink/smoke when handling. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Storage: Store at 15–30 °C. Keep dry; avoid moisture. Store separately from acids, metals, and oxidising agents. Keep container tightly closed.
Section 8 — Exposure Controls / PPE
| Sodium Azide OEL (TWA) | 0.1 mg/m³ (AIHA WEEL guidance) |
| Respiratory | P2 dust mask where dust is generated |
| Eye protection | Chemical splash goggles |
| Skin protection | Nitrile gloves (≥0.1 mm); laboratory coat |
| Ventilation | Local exhaust ventilation or fume cupboard |
Section 9 — Physical & Chemical Properties
| Physical form | Dehydrated powder |
| Colour | Cream to light beige |
| Odour | Faint characteristic (nutrient broth) |
| pH (SS, 25 °C) | 6.9 ± 0.2 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Boiling point | Not applicable (solid) |
| Flash point | Not flammable |
Section 10 — Stability & Reactivity
Stable under normal conditions. Sodium azide is reactive with: acids (releases toxic hydrazoic acid HN₃); heavy metals (forms explosive metal azides); strong oxidising agents. Avoid heat above 300 °C.
Section 11 — Toxicological Information
Primary hazard from sodium azide. Oral LD₅₀ (rat): ~27 mg/kg. Mechanism: inhibition of cytochrome oxidase (similar to cyanide), causing cellular hypoxia. Symptoms of overexposure: nausea, headache, hypotension, respiratory distress, loss of consciousness.
Section 12 — Ecological Information
Sodium azide is acutely toxic to aquatic organisms (LC₅₀ <1 mg/L for fish). Do NOT allow to enter drains, waterways, or soil. Classified as Aquatic Chronic Category 1.
Section 13 — Disposal Considerations
Dispose as hazardous waste via a licensed contractor in accordance with state/territory EPA requirements (Victoria EPA, relevant national guidelines). Do NOT neutralise sodium azide-containing waste with sodium hypochlorite — this can generate explosive shock-sensitive products. Consult certified hazardous waste disposal service.
Section 14 — Transport Information
| UN Number | UN 1687 |
| Proper Shipping Name | Sodium azide, solid |
| Hazard Class | 6.1 (Toxic) |
| Packing Group | II |
| Note | As a mixture/preparation at <0.75% NaN₃, review with carrier; may qualify for Limited Quantity exemption under ADG7. |
Section 15 — Regulatory Information
Complies with the Model Work Health and Safety Regulations (Safe Work Australia). Sodium azide is listed on the AICIS (Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme) inventory. Handle and dispose in accordance with state/territory EPA regulations.
Section 16 — Other Information
Issue Date: April 2026 | Version: 1.0 | Prepared by: AuSaMicS Pty Ltd — Technical Department
Sources: GHS Revision 9; Safe Work Australia HSIS; NICNAS/AICIS Inventory; IATA DGR; ADG Code 7th Edition.
AuSaMicS Pty Ltd | ABN: 56 676 640 467 | 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia | www.ausamics.com.au | support@ausamics.com | +61 412 520 598
This SDS is provided for laboratory safety purposes only. It does not constitute a guarantee of product specifications. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd accepts no liability for personal injury or property damage arising from reliance on this document. Always follow local WHS regulations and institutional safety procedures.
This SDS is provided for laboratory safety purposes only. It does not constitute a guarantee of product specifications. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd accepts no liability for personal injury or property damage arising from reliance on this document. Always follow local WHS regulations and institutional safety procedures.
Certificate of Analysis — Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth (AS-1154)
| Product Name | Bromocresol Purple Azide Broth |
| Catalogue Number | AS-1154 |
| Lot / Batch Number | [LOT-XXXXXX] |
| Manufacture Date | [DD/MM/YYYY] |
| Expiry Date | [DD/MM/YYYY] |
| Quantity | [XXX] g |
| Manufactured by | AuSaMicS Pty Ltd, 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074 |
Physicochemical Tests
| Parameter | Specification | Result | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance (powder) | Cream to light beige homogeneous powder | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
| pH (25 °C, SS) | 6.7 – 7.1 | [X.X] | ✅ Pass |
| Moisture content | ≤5.0% | [X.X]% | ✅ Pass |
| Solubility | Completely soluble in water | Compliant | ✅ Pass |
| Reconstituted colour | Purple, clear | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
Microbiological Performance Tests
| Test Organism | ATCC No. | Expected Result | Actual Result | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterococcus faecalis | ATCC 29212 | Growth; yellow broth (≤100 CFU) | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
| Enterococcus faecium | ATCC 19434 | Growth; yellow broth (≤100 CFU) | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
| Escherichia coli | ATCC 25922 | Inhibited; purple broth (≤100 CFU) | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | ATCC 27853 | Inhibited; purple broth (≤100 CFU) | [Result] | ✅ Pass |
Sterility (Prepared Medium)
| Sterility test | No microbial growth observed after 14 days incubation at 37 °C (TSB) |
| Result | ✅ Pass |
Release Status
✅ RELEASED FOR USE — This batch meets all AuSaMicS Pty Ltd specifications and is approved for release.
Authorised by: _________________________ Date: _____________
Quality Control, AuSaMicS Pty Ltd
Authorised by: _________________________ Date: _____________
Quality Control, AuSaMicS Pty Ltd
AuSaMicS Pty Ltd | ABN: 56 676 640 467 | 31 Longview CT, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia | www.ausamics.com.au | support@ausamics.com | +61 412 520 598
This Certificate of Analysis applies to the specific batch/lot identified above. Results are not transferable to other batches. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd warrants this product meets the stated specifications at time of manufacture. This warranty does not extend beyond the stated expiry date or to products that have been improperly stored or handled. For Research/Laboratory Use Only.
This Certificate of Analysis applies to the specific batch/lot identified above. Results are not transferable to other batches. AuSaMicS Pty Ltd warrants this product meets the stated specifications at time of manufacture. This warranty does not extend beyond the stated expiry date or to products that have been improperly stored or handled. For Research/Laboratory Use Only.