We simulate samples for general microbiological examinations that may contain a mixture of micro-organisms, these organisms are classifed as hazard group 2. A hazard group 2 organism may cause human disease and may be a hazard to laboratory workers, but is unlikely to spread to the community. Laboratories must have the required facilities to handle PT samples.
Our samples are prepared in two formats; freeze dried and LENTICULE discs.
Freeze-dried samples:
Freeze-drying is a well-established process for preserving a wide range of micro-organisms. FEPTU use a freeze-drying process to prepare samples in glass vials for a range of food EQA schemes. The samples are stable at ambient temperature for at least three weeks (and longer). However we recommend storage in a refrigerated conditions once the samples arrive in your laboratory.
LENTICULE discs:
LENTICULE discs consist of control-dried cultures of viable micro-organisms in discs, they are stable for up to 10 days during transit and must be stored at -20ºC once your laboratory receives the samples.
Discs are prepared to contain a wide range of micro-organisms, in pure or mixed cultures, at levels between 10 and 108 colony forming units per disc. LENTICULE discs are used by the UKHSA to prepare EQA samples for some food and all water microbiology schemes.