In the microbiological analysis of dairy products and water, Deoxycholate Agar is normally used for enumeration of conforms in pour plates. It may also be used for isolation of enteric pathogens by surface inoculation from rectal swabs, feces or other specimens. Deoxycholate Agar should be used in parallel with other plating media when used for this purpose. Sodium deoxycholate and sodium citrate are incorporated in the medium to inhibit the growth of Gram positive organisms. Fermentation of lactose causes an acid reaction in the medium resulting in the formation of deep red colonies.

Directions per Liter:

Dissolve 46grams per liter of distilled/ deionized (DDI) water, heating with stirring until completely solubilized.

Pour plates can be prepared after the medium has been cooled to 45-50°C. Do not autoclave

Storage and Stability:

Store powdered media at RT. Opened bottles should be capped tightly and kept in a dark, low humidity environment. Prepared media should be kept at 4°C and used within a short period of time.