StickSpongesCollect™ Polyurethane Polyurethane Neutralizing Buffer, 10 mL

Microbial Sampling Tool for surface sampling, using a plastic stick with an attached polyurethane sponge impregnated with Neutralizing Buffer to neutralize the effects of residual sanitizing agents and protect microorganisms during transport and analysis
Code: 4107015
Packaging: 100 pieces/box or customer request.
Storage Conditions: 4 – 25°C.
Transportation: Ambient temperature.
Shelf Life: 24 months from the date of manufacture.

INTENDED USE

StickSpongesCollect™ Polyurethane Neutralizing Buffer, 10 mL is designed for microbial sampling from surfaces in food processing, medical, and pharmaceutical environments. The primary purpose of this product is to assist in collecting microbial samples from surfaces, especially from hard-to-reach areas such as drains, equipment, and surrounding areas in food production facilities. Neutralizing Buffer helps neutralize the effects of residual sanitizing agents on surfaces, ensuring microorganisms are not affected during transportation and analysis.

PRINCIPLES

StickSpongesCollect™ Polyurethane Neutralizing Buffer, 10 mL utilizes a plastic stick with an attached biocide-free polyurethane sponge combined with 10 mL of Neutralizing Buffer to collect microorganisms from surfaces. Neutralizing Buffer neutralizes residual sanitizing agents such as chlorine, quaternary ammonium compounds, iodine, and phenolic, helping protect microorganisms from the effects of these substances. However, unlike nutrient media, Neutralizing Buffer does not provide nutrients for microorganism growth. Therefore, this solution only serves to neutralize without supporting microbial growth, maintaining their viability during transport without altering the sample’s characteristics.

Inspect the StickSpongesCollect™ product to ensure there is no damage or contamination during storage.
Write sample information on the provided label attached to the product packaging.
Wear the provided sterile gloves (if available).
Tear the bag along the pre-marked perforated line.
Remove the StickSpongesCollect™ stick by pulling the bag from the outside. Be careful not to touch the inside of the bag.
Rub the StickSpongesCollect™ sponge on the area to be sampled.
After sampling, return the sampling stick to the bag, making sure not to insert it too deep to avoid touching the inside of the bag.
Remove the sponge from the stick by holding the sponge from the outside of the bag and gently shaking until the sponge comes off the stick.
Use the provided tie to seal the StickSpongesCollect™ bag by rolling the top of the bag and tightly twisting the tie inside the bag..
The sample must be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible to prevent changes in microbial characteristics. The transportation process should comply with sample storage regulations.

Growth Promotion Test: ≤ 10³ CFU/mL microorganisms
Control strain	Incubation Conditions	Specifications
S.aureus ATCC 6538	24 – 48 h at 35 – 37°C	Good growth
Sterility control	No bacterial growth after incubation at 35 – 37°C for 72 hrs
Appearance	The solution contains a homogeneous sponges, without any stratification, light amber, clear.

Tween 80 (Polysorbate 80)…………………………………. 3,0 mL

Histidine………………………………………………………….. 0,1 g

Sodium thiosulfate…………………………………………….. 0.8 g

Soy lecithin………………………………………………………. 0,3 g

pH of the ready-to-use medium at 25°C: 7,2 ± 0,2

* Adjusted and /or supplemented as required to meet performance criteria

Product Name	Code	Packaging
StickSpongesCollect™ Polyurethane Polyurethane Neutralizing Buffer, 10 mL	4107015	100 pieces/box (5 bags) or customer request.