This 1.5 x 3 inch biocide-free cellulose sponge is mounted at one end of a stick and pre-hydrated with a Neutralizing Buffer diluent for collecting samples. The Neogen® Sponge-Stick allows a worker to collect samples without touching the inside of the bag, helping to maintain sample integrity. The stick also helps access hard-to-reach areas and to collect the sample without directly handling the sponge, making it ideal for reaching into drains, pipes, and around equipment. The stick also features a thumb-stop to help negate contact with the sponge. Once placed inside the collection bag, the sponge snaps free from the handle to allow for easy handling and transportation. The pre-moistened sponge is durable and biocide-free and does not affect organism viability. Its cellulose material is absorbent and will effectively hold and release the sample without excess dripping. The Neogen® Sponge-Stick also comes with a Neogen® Sample Bag that will accommodate 30 oz/0.89 L capacity to hold the sponge for safe, convenient transportation to the lab. They are decontaminated through gamma irradiation for long shelf life. This product is made in the USA with globally sourced materials.

The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach is the most widely accepted food safety management protocol worldwide. Sample collection products from Neogen® are a crucial part of this approach to identify potential food-borne hazards and pinpoint where they reside. Portability, stable enrichment media, and easy-to-handle swabs and sponges are designed to test for a wide variety of potential hazards and deliver exceptionally accurate results. They are engineered to safely gather, hold, and secure contents from the collection site to the lab without leaking or compromising the sample.

The use of Neutralizing Buffer is advised for surface testing for the presence of microorganisms that may occur on dairy and food equipment disinfected with chlorine or quaternary ammonium compounds. It is capable of inactivating the bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect of chlorine and quaternary ammonium composites. Neutralizing these chemicals is crucial in accurately detecting the presence of potentially harmful microorganisms. Using neutralizing buffer in the microbiological examination of surfaces in standard methods to test dairy products and food.