Malt Extract Agar (AS-1286) – Fungal Culture Medium for Yeasts & Moulds

Malt Extract Agar is a specialised solid growth medium formulated for the cultivation, isolation, and enumeration of fungi, yeasts, and filamentous moulds. The inclusion of malt extract provides a rich carbohydrate source that supports vigorous fungal growth, sporulation, and characteristic colony development.

The naturally acidic pH (5.4 ± 0.2) inhibits the growth of most bacteria, promoting selective fungal cultivation without the need for antibiotics. Selectivity can be further enhanced with chloramphenicol, tartaric acid, lactic acid, or dichloran depending on application requirements.

• Mycology & Fungal Research: Cultivation of yeasts, filamentous fungi, and moulds; sporulation and morphology studies
• Food & Beverage Microbiology: Detection of spoilage yeasts and moulds; QC testing of food, dairy, and beverage products
• Environmental Monitoring: Air, surface, and water fungal monitoring; cleanroom and facility monitoring
• Industrial Microbiology: Fermentation process monitoring and quality control
• Differentiation Studies: Selective growth of Aspergillus flavus in modified formulations

1. Suspend 50.0 g of dehydrated medium in 1 litre of demineralised or purified water.
2. Heat with frequent agitation until fully dissolved. Do not overheat.
3. Sterilise by autoclaving at 121 °C for 15 minutes.
4. Cool to 45–50 °C.
5. Add selective agents aseptically if required (e.g. 0.05 g/L chloramphenicol or 1.4 mL/L lactic acid).
6. Pour into sterile Petri dishes or dispense into sterile tubes.
7. Allow to solidify at room temperature before use.

Total: 50.0 g/L  |  pH: 5.4 ± 0.2 at 25 °C

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

Autoclave inoculated prepared media (121 °C, 30 min) before disposal. Dispose of unused dehydrated powder as general laboratory waste in accordance with local regulations. Do not pour large quantities down the drain without decontamination.

Not classified as dangerous goods under ADG, IATA, or IMDG. No special transport requirements. Keep dry and protect from extreme temperatures during transport.

All ingredients are listed on the Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals (AIIC). Not subject to AICIS registration for stated laboratory/food testing use. Users must comply with applicable WHS Regulations 2011.