Malt Extract medium is recommended for the isolation, detection and enumeration of yeasts and molds.
Reddish described a medium prepared from malt extract which was an acceptable substitute for wort. Following the formula of Reddish, Thom and Church used Malt extract as a base from which they prepared the complete media.
Malt extract and yeast extract provide essential growth nutrients for the growth of fungi. Maltose and dextrose are the suitable carbohydrates for the growth of fungi. The low pH inhibits bacterial growth.
Inoculate the specimen directly into tubes of the medium and incubate the tubes. After sufficient incubation observe for the presence of turbidity and subculture on selective and non-selective media for isolation of individual species. Consult appropriate references for information regarding the processing and inoculation of specimens.
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.