EMB AGAR, LEVINE (LEVIN EOSIN- METHYLENE BLUE AGAR) (as per IP)

Levin Eosin Methylene Blue Agar was developed by Levine and is used for the differentiation of Escherichia coli and Enterobacter aerogenes and also for the rapid identification of Candida albicans. This medium is recommended for the detection, enumeration and differentiation of members of the coliform group by American Public Health Association and Indian Pharmacopoeia.
Eosin-Y and methylene blue make the medium slightly selective and inhibit certain gram-positive bacteria. Both dyes act as indicator and inhibiting agent. These dyes differentiate between lactose fermenters and non-fermenters. Eosin Y and methylene blue forms a complex at acidic pH which acts as inhibiting agent. Some gram-positive bacteria such as faecal Streptococci, yeasts grow on this medium and form pinpoint colonies.
Weld proposed the use of Levine EMB Agar, with added Chlortetracycline hydrochloride, for the rapid identification of Candida albicans in clinical specimens.

for the isolation, enumeration and di?erentiation of members of Enterobacteriaceae in accordance with Indian Pharmacopoeia