Cooked Meat Medium with Glucose, Hemin and Vitamin K is a modification of the Cooked Meat Medium originally developed by Robertson (1) for cultivation of anaerobes isolated from wounds. Moore et al (2) have recommended this modified medium for subculturing of anaerobic isolates to be examined by gas liquid chromatography.
The medium contains Beef Heart granules, which provides amino acids and nutrients. It also contains glutathione, a reducing substance which permits the growth of obligate anaerobes. The sulphydryl groups which impart reducing effect are more available in denatured protein and hence the cooked meat is added in the medium. The added supplements glucose, yeast extract, hemin and vitamin K act as growth enhancers for anaerobic microorganisms.
The growth in this medium is indicated by the turbidity or bubble formation by some organisms. Blackening and disintegration of the meat particles indicate proteolysis. For best results, medium should be used on the day it is prepared, otherwise it should be boiled or steamed for a few minutes and allowed to cool without agitation and then inoculated.
Storage and Shelf-life:
Store below 30°C in tightly closed container and the prepared medium at 2 - 8°C. Use before expiry date on the label.
References:
1. Robertson, 1916, J. Pathol. Bacterial., 20:327.
2. Holdeman, Cato and Moore, 1977, Anerobic Laboratory Manual, 4th Ed, Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State Universtiy, Blacksburg, Va.