HiMedia M021-100G Triple Sugar Iron Agar 100g Laboratory Media

Description

Product Overview

The HiMedia M021-100G Triple Sugar Iron Agar is a premium dehydrated culture medium formulated to support the classic Triple Sugar Iron (TSI) test, a cornerstone assay in bacterial identification. Each 100 g package contains a precisely measured blend of lactose, sucrose, glucose, phenol red indicator, ferrous sulfate, and peptone, providing a reliable substrate for assessing carbohydrate fermentation patterns and hydrogen sulfide production. The medium is supplied in a compact, resealable pouch measuring 4.4 × 2.5 × 2.5 inches and weighing just 5.29 ounces, making storage and handling straightforward for busy laboratory environments. Designed for use with standard TSI slants, the agar solidifies to a clear, slightly pink base that turns yellow in the presence of acid from carbohydrate metabolism, while black precipitates indicate hydrogen sulfide generation. This dual‑indicator system enables rapid differentiation of Enterobacteriaceae and other Gram‑negative rods, as well as certain Gram‑positive organisms, based on their metabolic capabilities. The product is manufactured by HiMedia Laboratories, a trusted name in microbiological reagents, and has been available since February 2014, maintaining a consistent reputation for quality and performance. No special preparation steps are required; simply rehydrate the powder with distilled water, autoclave, and pour into sterile tubes to create ready‑to‑use TSI slants. The formulation is free from animal‑derived components, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of research protocols and regulatory standards.

Usage

This medium is ideal for clinical microbiology laboratories, academic research facilities, and teaching institutions that need a dependable TSI test for bacterial identification. After rehydration, the agar is poured into sterile test tubes and allowed to solidify at an angle, forming a slanted surface that facilitates observation of both the butt and the slant. In routine diagnostics, the TSI test helps differentiate members of the Enterobacteriaceae family by evaluating the ability to ferment glucose, lactose, and sucrose, as well as the production of gas and hydrogen sulfide. The HiMedia TSI agar supports clear visual interpretation: a yellow slant and butt indicate strong acid production, while a red slant with a yellow butt suggests limited fermentation. Blackening of the medium signals H₂S production, a key trait for organisms such as Salmonella and Proteus. The medium also performs well in research settings where metabolic profiling of novel isolates is required, providing a cost‑effective alternative to more complex biochemical panels. Its stable dehydrated form eliminates the need for frequent fresh preparation, reducing waste and ensuring batch‑to‑batch consistency. The product is compatible with automated incubation systems and can be stored at room temperature for up to 12 months, preserving its efficacy over extended periods. Users have reported excellent reproducibility across multiple laboratories, making it a reliable choice for multi‑site studies and quality‑controlled diagnostic workflows.

Why Choose Us

Choosing HiMedia for your Triple Sugar Iron Agar means partnering with a company that prioritizes scientific rigor and customer support. Every batch of M021-100G undergoes stringent quality control testing, including sterility checks, pH verification, and performance validation against reference strains. This ensures that the medium meets the exacting standards required for clinical diagnostics and research applications. HiMedia’s manufacturing facilities adhere to ISO 9001 and GMP guidelines, providing traceability and consistency across production runs. In addition to product quality, the company offers comprehensive technical assistance: a dedicated support team is available to answer formulation questions, troubleshoot preparation issues, and provide guidance on interpreting TSI results. Customers benefit from detailed protocol sheets, online resources, and access to a network of microbiology experts who can help optimize assay conditions. The brand’s long‑standing presence in the life‑science market translates into reliable supply chain management, guaranteeing that laboratories receive their orders on time, even during peak demand periods. Moreover, HiMedia’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the recyclable packaging and the use of environmentally responsible manufacturing practices. By selecting this product, laboratories not only gain a high‑performance medium but also align with a partner that values scientific integrity, regulatory compliance, and ongoing customer success.

Key Features

• Ready‑to‑use dehydrated format eliminates the need for daily media preparation, saving time and reducing errors.
• Precise formulation supports accurate detection of carbohydrate fermentation and hydrogen sulfide production for reliable bacterial identification.
• Compact 100 g packaging provides long‑term storage stability and easy handling in busy laboratory environments.
• Manufactured under ISO‑9001 and GMP standards to ensure batch‑to‑batch consistency and high quality.
• Dedicated technical support and detailed protocols help users achieve optimal results and troubleshoot any issues.

FAQ

What organisms can be identified using this Triple Sugar Iron Agar?

The TSI agar is primarily used to differentiate members of the Enterobacteriaceae family, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella spp., and Proteus mirabilis. It also provides useful information for certain Gram‑positive organisms such as Enterococcus faecalis. By evaluating carbohydrate fermentation patterns, gas production, and hydrogen sulfide generation, the medium helps microbiologists narrow down species identification and guide further confirmatory testing.

How should the medium be reconstituted and stored?

To prepare the agar, dissolve the entire 100 g powder in 1 L of distilled water, mix thoroughly, and autoclave at 121 °C for 15 minutes. After cooling to 45‑50 °C, pour the molten agar into sterile TSI tubes, allowing it to solidify at a 30‑degree angle. Store the sealed tubes at 2‑8 °C for up to 12 months. Unopened pouches should be kept in a dry, temperature‑controlled environment away from direct sunlight.

Can the medium be used with automated incubation systems?

Yes, the HiMedia TSI agar is compatible with most standard incubators and automated systems. The medium’s consistent composition ensures uniform growth and reliable color changes, which are essential for automated image analysis and data capture. Users should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for tube placement and incubation temperature (typically 35‑37 °C) to achieve optimal results.

Is the product suitable for teaching laboratories?

Absolutely. The clear visual outcomes of the TSI test make it an excellent teaching tool for illustrating bacterial metabolism concepts. The dehydrated format simplifies preparation for classroom demonstrations, and the medium’s safety profile—free from animal‑derived ingredients—aligns with institutional biosafety standards. Instructors can use the assay to teach students how to interpret acid/alkaline reactions, gas production, and H₂S formation.

What support does HiMedia provide if I encounter issues?

HiMedia offers a comprehensive support package that includes a technical helpline, email assistance, and access to online resources such as protocol videos and troubleshooting guides. If a batch does not perform as expected, the company will investigate the issue, provide replacement material if necessary, and work with the laboratory to resolve any procedural concerns. This proactive approach ensures minimal disruption to your workflow.