BD 221328 - OF Medium Dextrose Oxidation-Fermentation Medium for Carbohydrate Utilization Testing
The BD 221328 OF Medium Dextrose is a specialized diagnostic medium formulated for the Oxidation-Fermentation (OF) test, designed to differentiate microorganisms based on their ability to oxidize or ferment dextrose. This semi-solid medium contains peptones, bromothymol blue indicator, and dextrose as the primary carbohydrate source. It provides a controlled environment for determining metabolic pathways, supporting accurate identification of Gram-negative rods and other clinically significant organisms. BDs high-quality formulation ensures superior clarity, consistent pH response, and reliable results for routine laboratory use.
Key Benefits
The BD 221328 OF Medium Dextrose delivers dependable color change reactions, enabling clear interpretation of oxidative, fermentative, or non-utilizing patterns. Its stable pH indicator provides precise shifts from green to yellow in response to acid production. The mediums consistency supports proper oxygen diffusion, ensuring interpretable results in both sealed and open tubes. Designed for accuracy and reproducibility, it enhances diagnostic confidence and is suitable for high-volume microbiology workflows.
Compatibility and Applications
This medium is compatible with a variety of clinically relevant bacteria and is commonly used to differentiate:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa (oxidizer)
- Enterobacterales (fermenters)
- Alcaligenes species (non-utilizers)
- Other Gram-negative non-fermenters
The OF test is widely utilized in:
- Clinical diagnostic laboratories
- Environmental and industrial microbiology
- Research studies involving metabolic profiling
- Teaching and academic laboratories
Usage Guidelines
Inoculate two tubes of OF Medium Dextrose with a straight stab method. Seal one tube with mineral oil to create anaerobic conditions and leave the other unsealed for aerobic conditions. Incubate at 3537C for up to 48 hours. Observe color changes: yellow indicates acid production, confirming oxidation or fermentation depending on the tube. Green or blue coloration indicates no dextrose utilization. Store the medium in a cool, dry environment and avoid exposure to excessive heat or light.
Certifications, Safety Standards, and Regulatory Approvals
BD manufactures the OF Medium Dextrose under ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 quality systems. The product meets FDA and CE guidelines for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) media and undergoes rigorous quality checks for pH accuracy, sterility, performance consistency, and batch uniformity. BDs quality standards ensure reliable metabolic differentiation essential for clinical diagnostics.
Comparison with Competitor Products
Compared with generic OF media, BD 221328 offers superior clarity, precise pH indicator response, and greater consistency across batches. Competitor formulas may show inconsistent solidification or uneven color development, which can complicate metabolic interpretation. BDs high-grade raw materials and stable formulation ensure reproducible and easily interpretable results.
Typical User Profile and Application Scenarios
The medium is used by microbiologists, laboratory technologists, research scientists, and educators. It is ideal for:
- Identifying oxidative vs. fermentative metabolic pathways
- Differentiating non-fermenting Gram-negative rods
- Clinical pathogen identification in hospital labs
- Microbial physiology training and education
Best Practices for Use and Maintenance
Use sterile inoculating needles to avoid contamination. Label tubes clearly to distinguish sealed from unsealed preparations. Ensure the medium is properly stored and not dehydrated or contaminated before use. Monitor incubators for stable temperatures, and compare results with control organisms when needed. Dispose of used materials as biohazard waste following institutional requirements.
Regulatory and Safety Information
The BD 221328 OF Medium Dextrose is intended for in vitro diagnostic use by trained laboratory personnel. While the medium itself is non-hazardous, cultures grown within it may contain pathogenic microorganisms requiring biosafety level 2 precautions. Wear gloves, lab coat, and protective eyewear, and follow all biohazard disposal guidelines.
How to Order
To order the BD 221328 OF Medium Dextrose, add the product to your cart and complete checkout through CIA Medicals secure online ordering system. For bulk orders, laboratory contracts, or technical questions, contact CIA Medical customer service at (312) 275-5850 or submit an inquiry through the contact form on this page. Our team is available to support your microbiology media needs.
