Agar

Agar used for microbiology is derived from algae, and is a widely used material due to its unique characteristics. As a mostly inert media, Agar is essential for formulating solid and semisolid environment, vital for isolating microorganisms and commonly used as a growth medium for bacteria, fungi and yeast colonies. Agar remains solid at higher temperatures (up to 85°C), making it ideal for incubating cultures without melting and its transparency allows for easy observation and identification of microbial colonies. Being non-toxic and biocompatible, Agar does not inhibit microbial growth, ensuring a safe and effective medium for microbiological studies. Agar is combined with various nutrients, antibiotics, and indicators to create specific growth conditions tailored to different microorganisms. Agar is used in microbiological research within the pharmaceutical, environmental, cosmetic and food and drink industries.